In a tightly contested match on April 2, 2025, Stellenbosch FC held defending champions Zamalek SC to a goalless draw in the first leg of the CAF Confederation Cup quarter-finals at DHL Stadium in Cape Town. The South African side, making their debut at this stage of continental competition, showcased a resilient defensive performance, particularly from goalkeeper Sage Stephens, who made crucial saves to deny the Egyptian giants.
Despite the home advantage, Stellenbosch struggled to capitalize on their opportunities, failing to register a single shot on target in the first half. The match was marked by an evenly matched first stanza, where both teams found it difficult to break through each other's defenses. The first real chance came in the 26th minute when Andre De Jong unleashed a powerful strike from distance, but Zamalek's goalkeeper Mohamed Moussa was equal to the task, making a straightforward save.
As the game progressed, Zamalek began to find their rhythm, yet their first significant attempt came just before halftime. Mostafa Shalaby's long-range effort in the 38th minute flew high and wide, offering little threat to Stephens, who was largely untested in the opening 45 minutes. Both teams went into the break with the score still locked at 0-0.
The second half saw Stellenbosch take the initiative early on, but they continued to lack the cutting edge needed to find the back of the net. The first shot on target of the second period came in the 67th minute when Sihle Nduli's header was comfortably gathered by Moussa. Zamalek responded shortly after, with Ahmed Sayed trying his luck from distance, but his weak effort was saved easily by Stephens.
With the match entering its final stages, Zamalek looked more dangerous, and they nearly stole a late victory in the 85th minute. Substitute Nasser Mansi found himself in a prime position to score with a close-range header, but Stephens produced a heroic save, ensuring the tie remained deadlocked.
Stellenbosch's head coach Steve Barker made tactical adjustments, bringing on Ibraheem Jabaar for Genino Palace in the 65th minute, as Palace struggled with cramps. Despite their efforts, the Stellenbosch attack was unable to penetrate Zamalek's defense effectively, and they were left to rue missed chances.
Both teams had their moments, but the lack of clear-cut chances meant the match ended without a goal. The result leaves the tie finely poised as Stellenbosch heads to Cairo for the second leg, where they will need to build on their strong defensive display to secure a historic spot in the semi-finals.
The second leg is scheduled for April 9, 2025, at 6 PM, where Stellenbosch will look to overcome the challenge posed by Zamalek, a team with a storied history in African football, boasting 13 continental trophies. The pressure will be on the debutants to capitalize on their solid performance in the first leg and find a way to score away from home.
