Stellenbosch FC Open Betway Premiership Season With Gritty Away Win Over Sekhukhune United

Stellenbosch FC made a winning return to Betway Premiership action with a hard-earned 1-0 victory over Sekhukhune United at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium on Tuesday night. The result marked a positive start to their 2025/26 campaign after a long international break.

Sekhukhune United began the match with purpose and energy. They registered their first attempt on goal in the second minute when Tidiane Diomande struck from outside the 18-yard area with his left foot. Babina Noko enjoyed early spells of possession and looked sharp in build-up play but lacked precision in the final third.

Stellenbosch stayed compact and patient. In the 19th minute, they nearly took the lead when Langelihle Phili found space in the box, only for Sekhukhune goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner to produce a key save. As the half progressed, Stellenbosch grew in confidence. Chances followed for Phili and Enyinnaya Godswill, both denied by Leaner as the home side came under pressure.

The decisive moment arrived in the 33rd minute. Stellenbosch carved open the Sekhukhune defence with quick passing before debutant Tshegofatso Mabasa took control inside the area. His shot deflected off Daniel Cardoso and crossed the line, handing Stellies the lead and rewarding their improved spell of play.

After the break, Sekhukhune United increased the tempo and dominated possession. They pushed forward in search of an equaliser, especially as the match approached the hour mark. Despite their control of the ball, they struggled to create clear chances against a well-organised Stellenbosch defence.

As time ran down, Stellenbosch focused on managing the game. They defended deep, closed passing lanes, and slowed the rhythm whenever possible. Sekhukhune continued to advance in the final stages, including six minutes of added time, but failed to make their pressure count.

Stellenbosch held firm to secure maximum points away from home. The result highlighted their discipline, resilience, and ability to take key chances when they matter.

Final score
Sekhukhune United 0
Stellenbosch FC 1, Mabasa 33’

Sekhukhune United line-up
Leaner, Letlapa, Cardoso, Ndlovu, Diomande (Rammala 46’), Malivha (Phiri 68’), Monare, Mogaila (Mokoane 80’), Makgalwa (Mojela 68’), Grobler (Boyeli 68’), Mncube

Stellenbosch FC line-up
Stephens, Godswill, Mcaba, Stanic, Mdaka, Mthiyane, Titus (Barns 85’), Mabasa (Cupido 70’), Jabaar, Jooste (Nkwali 85’), Phili (Mokobodi 62’)

Stellenbosch will take confidence from a solid opening-night performance. Sekhukhune United will look to build on their possession play while improving their output in front of goal as the season unfolds.