Stellenbosch forced to travel 1 700 km for CAF clash as transfer speculation swirls

Stellenbosch FC have announced that they will travel approximately 1 700km to the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane for Sunday’s home game against Congolese side AS Otohô.

The match will mark the Winelands-based side’s opening gambit in the 2025/26 CAF Confederation Cup Group C campaign.

The decision comes after unexpected venue constraints have left Stellenbosch’s usual home ground options unavailable. The DHL Stadium in Green Point, their preferred venue in Cape Town, is currently off limits.

Compounding the issue, their traditional home in the picturesque Winelands, the Danie Craven Stadium, and the neighbouring Athlone Stadium, also do not meet the rigorous requirements set by CAF.

Several reports suggest Stellies have also placed striker Lehlohonolo Mojela and midfielder Lesiba Nku on the market, instructing both players to train away from the senior squad. Stellenbosch officials, Rob Benadie and Liam Bekker, did not respond to requests to confirm the validity of the reports on Monday.

The decision comes as the Cape Winelands side looks to capitalise on the duo’s talents and secure a financial return that aligns with their demands. Considering Stellenbosch’s miserable Premiership form this season, the move to transfer-list the pair may also serve as a disciplinary measure.

Both players have much to offer, but it appears they may have fallen foul of the club. Mojela, a promising talent, joined Stellenbosch in July 2024 and made an immediate impact, netting six goals in his first nine appearances.

His remarkable form was interrupted by a serious knee injury that sidelined him for a significant portion of his debut season. Despite leading Stellenbosch to the MTN8 final this season, where they fell to Orlando Pirates, his recent performances have declined; he has yet to score in 15 matches since returning from injury.

Meanwhile, Nku, who previously played for Sundowns, made a permanent switch to Stellenbosch in January 2025. The 29-year-old has featured in 35 matches across all competitions and contributed two goals, both from last season’s Betway Premiership. Despite his steady presence, the club’s decision to offload him appears indicative of a broader strategy to reshape the team.

As both players train independently, speculation surrounding their future grows. Numerous clubs have shown interest, offering a glimmer of hope that a transfer could be on the horizon. Nonetheless, until a suitable offer meets Stellenbosch’s expectations, Mojela and Nku will remain in limbo.