Stellenbosch FC suffered a second consecutive defeat in the CAF Confederation Cup group stage, losing 3-1 to last season’s finalists RS Berkane at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Sunday.

Youssef Zghoudi scored two quick-fire goals in the first half, capitalizing on Stellenbosch’s defensive lapses from set-pieces. The first goal came from a well-executed corner kick, while the second was a well-placed header from a free-kick.

Berkane added a third goal in the 83rd minute through Reda Hajji, who fired a powerful shot past the Stellenbosch goalkeeper Sage Stephens. Chumani Butsana scored a late consolation goal for the South African side.

With this defeat, Stellenbosch remains winless in the group stage, having lost their opening two matches. RS Berkane, on the other hand, have taken a commanding lead in Group B with six points from two games.

Berkane, a seasoned team in the competition, won this cup in 2022 against Orlando Pirates before losing last season to Zamalek. Their experienced coach, Moïne Chaâbani, previously led Esperance to two consecutive CAF Champions League titles.

Stade Malien and Desportivo Lunda-Sul drew 1-1 in their match, leaving them with four and one point, respectively, to occupy second and third spots.