Stellenbosch Stage Dramatic Comeback To Clinch Diski Challenge Title
In a thrilling finale to the DStv Diski Challenge, Stellenbosch FC fought back from a two-goal deficit to secure a stunning 4-3 victory over Golden Arrows at Tsakane Stadium on Saturday.
Stellies knew the stakes were high after Mamelodi Sundowns’ emphatic 6-0 win over Moroka Swallows earlier in the day. With Sundowns taking the lead on goal difference, Stellenbosch only needed a draw to claim the title. However, the first half unfolded differently.
Arrows surprised Stellenbosch with a quickfire double. Samukele Mlaba opened the scoring in the 29th minute, followed by a well-placed header from Sandile Ndlovu just three minutes later. This turn of events sent the Sundowns technical team into a frenzy, celebrating their unexpected advantage.
Undeterred, Stellenbosch emerged from the break with renewed purpose. Ethan Felix pulled one back in the 50th minute, igniting a dramatic comeback. Arrows’ defensive pressure weakened, allowing Mervin Boji to equalize in the 65th minute. This pushed Stellenbosch back on top of the table with 67 points.
The drama continued when Simthandile Sishi’s attempted clearance fortuitously looped over the Stellenbosch goalkeeper Dejean Ah Shene, putting Sundowns back in the lead on goal difference. However, Boji wasn’t finished. He capitalized on a goalkeeping error by Nqobani Langa in the 83rd minute to equalize again.
Just a minute later, Boji completed his hat-trick, securing the win and the DStv Diski Challenge title for Stellenbosch for the second time in three years. Stellenbosch coach Evangelos Vellios erupted in celebration, while the Sundowns team watched in disappointment. The final whistle confirmed Stellenbosch’s victory, leaving coach Vellios in tears of joy.