After last season's MTN8 final heartbreak, Stellenbosch set out with hope against AmaZulu

Stellenbosch FC came painfully close to claiming their maiden MTN8 title last season, only to fall 3-1 to Orlando Pirates in what many deemed a controversial final.

With the score level at 1-1, the turning point arrived with a late free-kick that Pirates executed from a disputed position, a decision that went unchallenged due to the absence of VAR.

Stellenbosch have finished as quarterfinalists, semifinalists, and runners-up in the last three competitions, and now stand poised to take the next step towards championship glory.

On Sunday, Stellenbosch take on AmaZulu in an MTN8 quarter-final (starting 15h00). Both teams, having experienced heartache in previous seasons, are desperate to secure their first title in this competition, making for an exciting matchup between two hungry squads.

Coach Steve Barker's Stellenbosch squad faces a challenging rebuild this season after losing key players in the transfer window. The departure of captain and left-back Fawaaz Basadien to Mamelodi Sundowns will be particularly keenly felt, as his creative influence was pivotal.

Midfielder Sihle Nduli's move to the Pirates adds to Barker's rebuilding woes as he navigates a new chapter for the club.

AmaZulu also enters this quarter-final with a palpable craving for success, making their longing for an MTN8 title even more surprising. Historically, AmaZulu has never managed to lift this trophy despite being a mainstay in South African football.

Their near miss in 2022, when they lost 1-0 to Pirates, echoes the disappointment of previous finals, including their 1976 setback against Kaizer Chiefs. With only one knockout trophy, now the Carling Knockout secured back in 1992, other honours have eluded this storied club.

Barker urged his side to go all the way this time around.

“Last season we got to the final and unfortunately we didn’t go all the way and win it,” Barker said.

“We have a big desire to go one step closer, but we have to get past a difficult opponent. Everybody’s ambition is to win the MTN8.

“Preparation has gone well, we worked hard during pre-season and I look forward to the game.”

AmaZulu coach Arthur Zwane, the Kaizer Chiefs legend, believes that Stellenbosch will present a unique list of challenges.

“Difficult one, Stellenbosch are not an easy team to play against. We are playing in Cape Town. They know the conditions where they are based,” Zwane said.

“So, for us, it will be the case of adapting there and dealing with everything that comes our way. Mentally and physically, the guys are ready, and they know the importance of us going into the next round.”

Stellenbosch are likely to adopt an aggressive playing style that puts them on the front foot, with Ashley Cupido leading the charge. His dynamic attacking skills have made waves during the team’s pre-season preparations. The versatile forward will be a critical asset as Stellenbosch gears up to showcase their prowess on the pitch.

AmaZulu will be keen to thwart Cupido's ambitions with their captain, Riaan Hanamub, spearheading its tightly-knit defence. A player with extensive experience, Hanamub will have the task of not only commanding his backline but also keeping Cupido at bay.

The challenge posed by Stellenbosch will require Hanamub’s know-how, as he prepares to lead his team against what is expected to be a formidable attacking onslaught.