Stellenbosch FC remain winless in the CAF Confederation Cup group stages after losing 3-1 to RS Berkane on Sunday afternoon.
CAF Confederation Cup
Result: Stellenbosch FC 1-3 RS Berkane
Date: 08 December 2024
Venue: Moses Mabhida Stadium
The Western Cape outfit were playing in Durban as both Danie Craven Stadium and Athlone Stadium do not meet requirements for CAF competitions, while the DHL Stadium is hosting another event this weekend.
It was the Moroccan outfit who got the early goal as Youssef Zghoudi bagged his first goal of the group stages with a towering header from Youssef Maheri.
Berkane went on to double their lead in the 15th minute when Ayoub Khairi got the slightest of touches to a free-kick that sailed past goalkeeper Sage Stephens at the near post.
Steve Barker's charges had to wait until the 30th minute for an opening at goal, with the influential unleashing a strike that sailed inches wide of the upright.
The Carling Knockout champions came out for the second period with a little more attacking intent, as Sanele Barns was introduced and striker Ashley Cupido made way after a quiet first-half showing.
Stellies tried their best to get one back but they lacked the quality in the final third to trouble the Berkane goalkeeper, who barely had a big save to make throughout the contest.
Berkane, however, wrapped up the contest with seven minutes left on the clock as Red Haiji surged forward on the counter before unleashing a powerful strike that sailed in off the woodwork, leaving Stephens with no chance.
The hosts did grab a consolation goal in the final two minutes, with substitute Chumani Butsaka finding the back of the net but the Moroccans were already home and dry by then.
