Stellenbosch eye more cup glory as Siwelele prepare for top-flight baptism
Premier Soccer League
Steve Barker continues to build one of South Africa’s most progressive footballing projects in Stellenbosch. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
🔴🟡 Stellenbosch FC
Cup specialists on the rise under Barker’s steady hand
Club owner: Johann Rupert
Head coach: Steve Barker
Highest-ever finish: Third
Competitions: Betway Premiership, Nedbank Cup, MTN8, Carling Knockout Cup, CAF Confederation Cup
Silverware chances: Strong in all domestic cup competitions — a league title remains a distant dream.
Stellenbosch have charted a remarkable rise since gaining promotion to the top flight six years ago. Their success has been underpinned by continuity and vision, with Steve Barker — the league’s longest-serving coach — leading the charge since day one.
Barker, nephew of the late Clive Barker, has overseen the club’s transformation into a model of sustainable growth. His knack for identifying and developing young talent has not only kept the club competitive but also turned Stellies into a desirable talent pipeline for local and overseas teams alike.
Despite losing key players such as Deano van Rooyen, Iqraam Rayners, and Jayden Adams last season, Stellenbosch still managed an impressive third-place league finish and a CAF Confederation Cup semi-final run.
With skipper Fawaaz Basadien now also departed, Barker will again look to his development structures and scouting acumen to plug the gaps. His blend of youthful exuberance and a sprinkling of experience ensures Stellies remain a dangerous outfit across all fronts.
Ashley Cupido will be key to Stellenbosch’s attacking threat after an impressive breakout season. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
Players to watch
- Ashley Cupido
- Lesiba Nku
- Athenkosi Mcaba
Predicted league finish: Fourth
Lehlohonolo Seema brings experience and passion as he leads Siwelele FC into their debut Premiership season. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
🟢⚪ Siwelele FC
New identity, old heart – Seema to lead Gauteng-based debutants
Club owner: Calvyn Le’John
Head coach: Lehlohonolo Seema
Highest-ever finish: New entrants
Competitions: Betway Premiership, Nedbank Cup, Carling Knockout Cup
Silverware chances: Unlikely in year one — squad rebuild and settling period required.
Siwelele FC enter the Premiership fray this season after purchasing the league status of SuperSport United. While a new name appears on the fixture list, the club carries echoes of Bloemfontein Celtic, whose loyal supporters are expected to rally behind the project.
For now, Siwelele will operate from Gauteng, but a planned move back to the Free State could revive footballing pride in Bloemfontein. That return, however, is earmarked for future campaigns.
Tasked with guiding the club through this period of identity-building is Lehlohonolo Seema, who makes his coaching return after a mixed spell at Sekhukhune United. Seema inherits a squad with top-flight experience, including players who battled relegation with SuperSport last season — an experience that could help forge early resilience.
The road ahead is steep, but with key veterans and smart recruitment — including trialists like Keagan Dolly and Thabiso Kutumela — Siwelele FC are laying the foundation for a competitive future.
Vincent Pule’s experience and creativity will be vital in guiding Siwelele FC through their maiden Premiership campaign. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
Players to watch
- Vincent Pule
- Thulani Hlatshwayo
- Christian Saile
Predicted league finish: 15th