Steve Barker expects a tough match in the CAF Confederation! | OneFootball

Stellenbosch FC coach talks about the difficulties they will face against Agosto de Akonibe!

Steve Barker expects a tough match in the CAF Confederation!

Buoyed by a thrilling victory on the very same pitch, Stellenbosch FC approaches their crucial continental clash against 15 de Agosto de Akonige with a surge of belief, according to coach Steve Barker. The team's morale is sky-high following a dramatic 4-3 win over Golden Arrows at Athlone Stadium, the very venue that will host Sunday's decisive encounter.

"We’re confident going into the game on Sunday," Barker affirmed, outlining the club's continental ambitions. "We want to be competing on the continent at the highest level, so it’s important for us to get ourselves past our opposition and into the Group Stage."

This confidence, however, is tempered by a healthy respect for an opponent they know will offer no easy passage. The first leg in Equatorial Guinea ended in a gritty 0-0 stalemate, an experience that served as a stark reminder of the challenge ahead.

“No game is easy, and we encountered [during the first leg] that they’re a difficult opponent,” Barker conceded, analyzing their strengths. “They’re very direct and possess a lot of physicality and aerial ability."

Yet, with the home advantage firmly on their side, the coach has a clear mandate for his team. “We have to be aware of that, but at the same time, we’re playing at home, so we have to take the game to them and make sure we ask many questions, create chances, get our goals, and hopefully progress to the next round.” The stage is set for a proactive performance as Stellenbosch seeks to translate their domestic form into continental success.