Stellenbosch FC Stranded in DRC After CAF Confederation Cup Exit
Stellenbosch FC’s CAF Confederation Cup campaign has taken another frustrating twist after the squad became stranded in the Democratic Republic of Congo following their defeat to AS Otohô. The Cape Winelands side saw their hopes of progressing from Group C officially end with a 3 0 loss in Congo Brazzaville on Sunday. That result confirmed their elimination from the competition and marked a disappointing end to their continental ambitions this season. However, the challenges did not stop at the final whistle. Travel complications have now compounded what was already a demanding and costly campaign for the club.
A source close to the team confirmed that the squad has been unable to leave the DRC as initially scheduled. While other clubs managed smoother departures, Stellenbosch encountered unexpected logistical hurdles. The source pointed out that Mamelodi Sundowns, who were at the same airport, faced no such issues due to private travel arrangements. According to the insider, Sundowns had access to a private jet which allowed them to depart without delay. In contrast, Stellies were left waiting despite being only a few kilometres away from their fellow South African side’s hotel.
Club officials have since worked to find an alternative route back home, engaging diplomatic channels for assistance. Consultations were held with the South African embassy based in Congo in an effort to resolve the situation. The minimum support secured was an arrangement for the team to be flown to Ethiopia, where they would then attempt to connect to a flight bound for South Africa. Plans indicated that the squad would depart for Ethiopia at 12 o’clock on Wednesday. From there, further travel logistics would determine their final arrival time back home.
If the revised travel plans proceed without further disruption, Stellenbosch FC are expected to land in South Africa by Thursday evening. The source indicated that successful boarding of the Ethiopia connection would ensure their return the following day. Such delays can take a physical and mental toll on players, particularly after an exhausting continental fixture. Extended travel uncertainty often disrupts recovery schedules, training routines and overall team morale. For a club already eliminated from the CAF Confederation Cup, the added strain only deepens the frustration.
The timing of the ordeal presents additional pressure as Stellenbosch must quickly refocus on domestic responsibilities. The team currently sits in the bottom half of the Betway Premiership standings and needs consistent results to climb the table. They are scheduled to host Tanzania’s Singida Black Stars FC at the DHL Stadium in Cape Town on Sunday in what is now a dead rubber CAF fixture. Even though progression is no longer possible, professional pride and coefficient points remain at stake. With limited preparation time and travel fatigue looming, the technical team faces a tough task to regroup the squad and restore focus ahead of a crucial period in their season.
