Stellenbosch coach Steve Barker has dismissed any notion of resting his star players despite their commanding 3-0 lead over Nsingizini Hotspurs in the CAF Confederation Cup.

The coach emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and momentum ahead of the MTN8 semifinal against Mamelodi Sundowns at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Wednesday.

Stellenbosch’s impressive 3-0 victory in the first leg of the CAF Confederation Cup match last weekend has set them up for a comfortable return leg at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday (15:00).

Barker was asked if he would consider making changes given their significant advantage and Nsingizini’s apparent struggles.

“I do believe that, personal as a coach, I think our club has enough humility to not concentrate on Sundowns,” said Barker, who has lost striker Iqraam Rayners to Sundowns.  

The coach expressed his hope that a strong result against Nsingizini would provide a confidence boost going into the MTN8 semifinal. He insisted that the team would remain focused on the current task and avoid distractions.

“We need to respect our opposition (Hotspurs); we need to take one game at the time. But at the same time – good performances, winning streaks, unbeaten runs gives your confidence in the match,” he added. 

“Hopefully, a good positive result allows you to go in the MTN8 semifinal with good confidence. So, I expect the team to just concentrating on this match, get this match done, do the professional job and one or two days we will stay in Durban. 

“You guys can come and visit us at Suncoast (he said with a smile) because Tuesday, we will fly to Pretoria and play on Wednesday (against Sundowns), fly back to Cape Town on Thursday, try and rest a bit and one or two days fly back to Durban next week Saturday. 

“You are going to get tired of me if we keep winning and advancing!”  

Stellenbosch has been forced to play their home matches at the Moses Mabhida Stadium due to renovations at Danie Craven and Athlone Stadium. DHL Stadium was unavailable due to a scheduled Springboks rugby match against New Zealand in the Rugby Championship on 7 September.

While Barker expressed a preference for playing at home, he acknowledged that the team has enjoyed their time at the Moses Mabhida Stadium. “We want to play at home, but we enjoy it here,” he said.

The second leg of the MTN8 semi final will take place at the Moses Mabhida Stadium next Sunday.