Stellenbosch coach, Steve Barker is a relieved man after his side registered their first victory in the CAF Confederations Cup, beating CD Lunda Sul 1-0 away in Angola’s capital, Luanda on Sunday.

Thanks to a stunning 89th-minute header from Devin Titus, Stellies were able to register their first three points in the competition, moving to third place in the group after having lost their first two games. 

The Stellies gaffer reflected on the significance of the victory coming from a demoralizing 3-1 home defeat to Group B leaders RS Berkane in their second game. 

“Because we had lost our first two games, it was a critical game. We knew that if we don’t win we are most likely out of the tournament so we knew that was a must-win,” said Barker. 

The South African tactician however maintained that he would not be clouded by the results as he recognised the Angolan side to be competitive opponents despite defeating them in their own backyard.

“But we do know that Lunda Sol is a tough team, they did show their qualities so for the second match it is important for us to prepare well and not to underestimate them,” he emphasized. 

As first-time campaigners, the Cape Wineland’s club has endured a bumpy start to their group stage run, conceding five goals in their first two games. 

However, the recent victory rather proved some growth in character, as they managed to not only find victory but maintain a desolate defense for 90 minutes, clinching an away clean sheet.

The 53-year-old shared a brief insight into what this victory meant for a club and its fans who like their opponents, are the first-time participants trying to survive in deep waters amongst the big fish of African football. 

“I think it was a massive win for us. It was our first win in the CAF group stage. It is the first time we have participated in the Confed Cup. We are similar to Lunda Sul and we only got promoted five years ago and it means a lot for us as a football club. It means a lot for the people of South Africa and especially our fans that we were able to get this important victory,” reiterated the 2023 Carling Cup Champion.

Having fought their way back into contention, the Western Cape-based club will attempt to climb further up the standings when they welcome the same opponents, Lunda Sol for a home leg in January 2025. 

In the meantime, they host Mamelodi Sundowns, CAF Champions League participant, at DHL Stadium in the Betway Premiership on Wednesday (19:30).