Steve Barker Confident Ahead of Stellenbosch’s Carling Knockout Showdown With Kaizer Chiefs

• Steve Barker has made bold statements ahead of Stellenbosch FC's clash against Kaizer Chiefs in the Carling Knockout Cup first round this season
• The South African tactician does not have a good record against the Glamour Boys since last season, and hopes to end their bad run against them this weekend
• The Stellies are one of the top sides taking part in the competition, and eliminating Kaizer Chiefs gives them another shot at silverware this season after losing the MTN8

Stellenbosch FC head coach Steve Barker is confident his side can finally break their winless streak against Kaizer Chiefs when they clash in the Carling Knockout Round of 16 on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at DHL Stadium in Cape Town.

The mouthwatering clash at DHL Stadium, Cape Town, will mark the fifth meeting between the two teams across all competitions, with the Glamour Boys having come out on top in each of the previous four fixtures. Their most recent clash saw the Soweto giants secure a 2-0 victory in the Betway Premiership earlier this season.

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Barker hopes to take advantage of Kaizer Chiefs' missing their head coach, Nasreddine Nabi and the ongoing instability in the managerial department at the club.

Mamelodi Sundowns have been knocked out of the competition, which means both Kaizer Chiefs and the Stellies will be looking forward to joining Orlando Pirates in the next round, as one of the major competitors has crashed out.

Barker on Stellies facing Kaizer Chiefs

Despite Amakhosi's dominance in the head-to-head record, Barker believes his team is ready to turn the tide and make a strong statement, especially in front of their home fans.

The South African tactician shared that the Carling Knockout Cup gives his team another chance to battle for silverware after losing the MTN8 title for the second consecutive year to Pirates earlier this season.

“Cup competitions are always exciting, and the Carling Knockout is another opportunity for us to challenge for silverware,” Barker said via the club’s media team.

“It’s great to be playing at home first and against a team like Kaizer Chiefs. The mood in the camp is positive, we’ve prepared well, and the boys are showing a lot of energy and enthusiasm.”

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The Stellies mentor will hope his side’s attacking rhythm and home advantage can secure them a spot in the quarterfinals, as they look to build on their growing reputation as one of the most competitive sides in the Premier Soccer League.

They are currently struggling in the Betway Premiership as they sit 14th on the log with six points from nine league matches this season. They are only ahead of Magesi FC on the league table.

Stellenbosch star reflects on positive start

Briefly News also reported that Omega Mdaka has shared his views on his impressive performance at the start of this season for Stellenbosch FC.

The Kaizer Chiefs academy product slotted into the void Basadien left behind at the Stellies after moving to Sundowns, and he didn't disappoint.

Source: Briefly News