Stellenbosch FC coach Steve Barker admitted that the past few weeks have been challenging due to persistent rumors surrounding his players’ potential departures.

Fawaaz Basadien, who was linked with a move to Kaizer Chiefs, silenced the critics with an outstanding performance, providing an assist and scoring a goal in Stellenbosch’s 3-1 MTN8 quarter-final victory over TS Galaxy at Danie Craven Stadium on Sunday.

The talented and well-educated left-back, renowned for his dead-ball expertise, showcased his abilities with his precise in-swinging corner was met perfectly by Andre De Jong for the second goal, and he completed the move with a powerful finish for the third.

“It has been a bit challenging over the past couple of weeks,” Barker acknowledged after the match.

“Obviously, with a lot of noise and rumours and all that flying around, so it was just managing that ensuring we get on the field, play out our game, get through it with possibly good result which we have now. 

“So, it set up nicely now to go to CAF Confederation Cup game and look forward to the MTN8 semifinal at the end of the month, or early September.”  

Looking ahead, Barker expressed optimism about the team’s prospects in the CAF Confederation Cup and the MTN8 semifinal.

Captain Deano van Rooyen, another player linked with a departure, did not feature against Galaxy as Barker was worried that he might aggravate the injury.

Another player who has been linked with an exit move was Jayden Adams, who has been rumored to be joining Mamelodi Sundowns. The Bafana Bafana international opened the scoring for Stellenbosch with a delicate touch.

Despite the potential loss of key players, Barker revealed that the club is close to finalizing one or two new signings before the transfer window closes next month. The return of Ibraheem Jabaar, who left the club at the beginning of last season, has also bolstered the squad.

“We’re likely just one or two signings away from completing our squad,” Barker stated. “Having the same core group from last season, combined with the return of Jabaar, is a significant boost. Although he didn’t feature against Galaxy, he has looked sharp and integrated well into the team.”