Stellies Look To Set Things Right In Cape Town After Belouizdad Slip

by nikita.m

Stellenbosch FC return home this weekend with one thing on their minds: taking back control of CAF Confederation Cup Group C. After a tough 2-0 loss in Algeria, the Cape side now host CR Belouizdad at the DHL Cape Town Stadium on Sunday afternoon, knowing a win would put them right back at the top of the standings.

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A chance to reclaim the top spot

Stellies went into last weekend’s clash in Algeria on a high, but the pace and physicality of Belouizdad stunned them early. The defeat not only marked their first in the group but also pushed them into second place. Still, they trail the Algerian giants by only two points, and with two games left after Sunday, the door is wide open.

Belouizdad arrive in Cape Town confident after recording their second straight win in all competitions. Their victory over Stellies tightened their grip at the top and moved them closer to a quarterfinal place. They will be just as determined to stretch the gap before heading into the final stretch of Group C.

New faces return for Stellies

The good news for Stellenbosch supporters is the return of Tshegofatso Mabasa, Kobamelo Kodisang and Mosa Lebusa. All three new signings missed the trip to Algeria due to VISA delays, but they are now available and ready to strengthen the attack and backline.

Stellies were, however, hit with a surprise departure in midweek. Sanele Barns, who actually started in the away match, has rejoined Richards Bay. His sudden exit removes a familiar option in the frontline, but coach Gavin Hunt will focus on the squad at hand.

Belouizdad have their own shake-up. Long-serving midfielder Housseyn Selmi was released this week after nearly a decade at the club. His absence removes a player with deep experience in continental football, something Stellies may look to exploit.

Hunt prepares for a different battle

Reflecting on the first meeting, Hunt admitted that Stellies were caught off guard by Belouizdad’s intensity.

“The speed and the pace of the game certainly caught us off guard. It was a difficult start, but we grew into the game a little more. The next match will be a completely different game. It will be played in the afternoon in very hot conditions, which may suit us,” he said.

Cape Town’s afternoon heat can be unforgiving, and while Stellies are not regulars in those conditions either, the home advantage and familiar turf could make a difference.

Belouizdad confident but cautious

Belouizdad coach Sead Ramovic praised Stellies as a strong, well-organised team. Having previously worked in South Africa, he understands the pace and physicality of local football.

“We prepared properly by studying their strengths and weaknesses. I thank our players and the staff for their efforts,” he said.

His familiarity with the South African league adds another layer of intrigue to Sunday’s showdown.

A growing rivalry begins

This match marks only the second meeting between the two clubs, with Belouizdad winning last weekend’s maiden clash. But with a top spot on the line and both sides eyeing the knockout rounds, Cape Town could witness the start of a fierce new continental rivalry.

Stellies know their home ground has often been a fortress. With their squad reinforced and their goal crystal clear, Sunday offers the perfect opportunity to reset the narrative and take back control of Group C.

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Source: SuperSport

Featured Image: Stellenbosch FC on X