Stellenbosch FC thrash Hotspurs to secure CAF Confederation Cup progression

This resounding victory secured an 8-0 aggregate triumph, marking a memorable day for Steve Barker's men as they advanced to the next round of their maiden CAF campaign.

The South African side wasted no time asserting their dominance, with Lehlogonolo Mojela opening the scoring just 10 minutes into the match.

The Hotspurs' goalkeeper initially performed admirably, making a strong double save, but Mojela was quick to react, heading home the rebound to give Stellies an early 1-0 lead. It was a moment that set the tone for the afternoon.

Stellenbosch continued to press forward, with their fluid attacking play causing constant problems for the Hotspurs' defence.

In the 19th minute, Langelihle Phili, who was involved in much of the build-up play, fired a shot over the bar from range after a skilful sequence involving Mojela, Sanele Barns, and Andre de Jong.

However, it wasn't long before Phili found the back of the net. In the 27th minute, he unleashed an unstoppable left-footed strike, doubling Stellenbosch's lead and marking his first goal in his first start for the club.

The first half saw several more opportunities for Stellenbosch, with Mojela coming close to adding a second goal in the 35th minute, only to see his toe-poked effort drift just wide.

The Hotspurs' keeper was called into action again shortly after, pulling off another double save to deny both Phili and Mojela, who were relentless in their pursuit of more goals.

Barker opted for a triple substitution at half-time, bringing on Omega Mdaka, Devin Titus, and Jayden Adams for Fawaaz Basadien, Kyle Jurgens, and Sihle Nduli.

The changes did nothing to slow Stellies' momentum. Just six minutes into the second half, Andre de Jong extended the lead to 3-0, capitalising on a defensive blunder to tap into an open net.

This goal marked De Jong's third consecutive match finding the back of the net, showcasing his consistency and predatory instincts.

More substitutions followed in the 58th minute, with Mervin Boji and Thulani Mini entering the fray in place of Mojela and Barns.

As the game progressed, Stellenbosch continued to dominate possession and create chances. Devin Titus nearly added a fourth in the 70th minute, flashing a dangerous ball across the face of goal, but no one was there to finish the move.

The fourth goal did come, however, in the 85th minute. Omega Mdaka, on his debut, marked the occasion in style by slotting home Stellies' fourth of the afternoon.

As the match drew to a close, Mervin Boji added the finishing touch in the 89th minute, capping off a sublime performance with a fifth goal to make it 5-0 on the day and 8-0 on aggregate.

The victory was a statement of intent from Stellenbosch, who looked every bit the part of continental contenders.

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