Golden Arrows aim to overcome unpredictable Stellenbosch in Nedbank Cup last 16

LAMONTVILLE Golden Arrows coach Manqoba Mngqithi is preparing for what he expects to be a demanding test against an improving Stellenbosch FC in their Nedbank Cup last-16 clash at King Zwelithini Stadium on Saturday evening (6pm).

Arrows face a Stellenbosch side that has developed into a serious contender in domestic cup competitions in recent seasons. Earlier this term, the Cape outfit reached a cup final before finishing runners-up to Orlando Pirates in the MTN8, reinforcing their reputation as a dangerous knockout opponent.

For the KwaZulu-Natal club, progress in this competition has not always been straightforward. However, a convincing 3-0 victory over Orbit College in the previous round has handed Arrows a valuable opportunity to move beyond the last 16 — a hurdle that proved too high in 2023 when they were eliminated by Royal AM at the same stage.

Very little separates the two teams in the league standings, and with both still striving to improve their positions, this encounter represents more than just a cup tie. Silverware and potential qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup remain powerful incentives, ensuring neither side will take the occasion lightly.

When the teams met in the league earlier this season, they produced one of the campaign’s most entertaining encounters. Stellenbosch secured a dramatic 4-3 victory under then-coach Steve Barker in a match that highlighted both attacking quality and defensive vulnerability.

With neither club having lifted the Nedbank Cup before, Saturday’s fixture carries added significance. A place in the quarter-finals is at stake, and the opportunity to move a step closer to a maiden title is sure to raise the intensity.

Stellenbosch have undergone notable changes since that seven-goal thriller. The appointment of experienced coach Gavin Hunt has ushered in a transition period, accompanied by several new signings aimed at restoring balance and consistency.

Mngqithi believes this evolution makes the opposition more unpredictable, but he welcomes the challenge of facing another top-flight side in the competition.

“If you have ambitions of winning a trophy, you must accept whichever draw comes your way because there is no avoiding strong opponents,” Mngqithi said.

“Stellenbosch are going through a transition after many years with Steve Barker, and now they have Gavin Hunt, who is experienced and very strong in cup competitions. That makes it difficult to predict exactly how they will approach this match.”

Mngqithi is optimistic that home advantage could offer Arrows a slight edge.

“It will not be an easy assignment, but we must approach it positively. Playing at home helps because we know the pitch, the surroundings, and the conditions. We can only hope to produce a performance that will take us through.”

He also pointed to the added challenge of facing a side revitalised by a new technical team, with players eager to impress and competition for places intensified.

“It is always difficult to play against a team with a new coach because the energy within the squad changes. Sometimes players who were not performing well before improve immediately because they want to secure their positions.”