Hunt Faces 52-Game Loftus Unbeaten Streak Against Sundowns
Stellenbosch coach Gavin Hunt has acknowledged the massive challenge awaiting his side as they prepare to face Mamelodi Sundowns in a pivotal Betway Premiership clash at Loftus Versfeld Stadium this Wednesday.
A victory for Stellenbosch could also aid Orlando Pirates in the title race, especially after they recently dropped crucial points.
Stellenbosch head into the encounter on a high following a 3–1 victory over Sekhukhune United in their previous match.
However, the challenge will be far from straightforward, with Sundowns also targeting top spot—currently occupied by Pirates.
The Cape Winelands outfit remains in the hunt for a top-eight finish, sitting ninth on the table with 31 points from 24 matches.
After a difficult start to the season that saw them flirting with relegation, their form has improved significantly since Hunt took charge in January, with the team suffering just one defeat under his leadership.
“It was an important win for us in the last game, especially heading into the Sundowns match,” said Hunt.
“They are, for me, certainly one of the top sides in Africa. We are under no illusion about what we’re facing—it’s going to be a very difficult task. They haven’t lost in about 52 games at Loftus, so it certainly won’t be easy.”
“I’m looking forward to it, though. We’ll go there with a solid plan and see if it works,” he added.
Hunt also highlighted a significant setback ahead of the fixture, confirming the absence of Asekho Tiwani. The left-back, who is on loan from Sundowns, is ineligible to play against his parent club.
“Tiwani is a big loss because he has been our regular full-back,” Hunt said.
“He’s played most of the second round and has been really good for us, so that’s a huge blow. But it is what it is—these things happen in football. We’ll focus on what we can control. Omega Mdaka will come in, and I’m confident he will do well for us.”
