The drive to compete in next season’s CAF club competition is a burning ambition for Stellenbosch FC coach Steve Barker.

Barker’s side currently holds the coveted second-place slot, which almost guaranteeing them African participation next year in the CAF Champions League, with a one-point lead over Orlando Pirates in third and just three games remaining.

They’ve not only amassed an impressive 50 points but also secured their first-ever trophy, the Carling Knockout trophy, in December last year.

Stellies face a quick turnaround after Wednesday’s draw with AmaZulu, with another crucial league clash against Moroka Swallows awaiting them at Dobsonville Stadium this Saturday afternoon.

“We’ve become used to the quick turnaround now so we just have to get over the result emotionally and get ourselves back to zero,” Barker said on the club’s website. 

“We’re still in second position on the log with three games to go so there is a lot to play for. It’s important to regenerate physically and mentally, get on the plane, and make sure we put in a big performance. 

“If we continue to play like we did against AmaZulu, even though we didn’t get the maximum points, we will win more football matches. 

“The prospect of competing in Africa next season is a massive incentive. Footballers, coaches, technical staff, and support staff all want to be competing with the best. 

“We’ve seen teams from our own country win competitions like the Champions League in the past so there is a massive incentive for our players to want to showcase their talents and ability on that stage. 

“The desire and motivation are there so it’s just a case of looking at it as three more games in which we need to apply ourselves.”