Stellenbosch’s Lehlohonolo Mojela combined with Andre de Jong in the goal that helped the Cape side beat Mamelodi Sundowns. (Darren Stewart/Gallo Images)
- Lehlohonolo Mojela scored to help Stellenbosch FC to a 3-1 aggregate win over AS Vita, securing their spot in the CAF Confederation Cup group stages.
- Stellenbosch are now South Africa’s sole representative in the tournament.
- Meanwhile, the Maroons complete the trio of SA clubs competing in Africa as Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates vie for CAF Champions League honours.
- For more Orlando Pirates news, please visit the News24 dedicated local soccer page.
Lehlohonolo Mojela is relishing his time at Stellenbosch FC, playing a key role in their historic 3-1 aggregate triumph over AS Vita to secure a place in the CAF Confederation Cup group stages.
The 27-year-old forward, who made his way to Stellies from TS Galaxy ahead of the 2024/25 season, has quickly cemented himself as a key player, contributing to a milestone moment for the club.
With four goals in just six matches across all competitions, Mojela has proven to be a game-changer for Stellenbosch.
His influence was immediately evident when he scored in the first leg of the preliminary second-round clash against AS Vita at the Cape Town Stadium, setting the stage for a 2-0 victory that gave Stellies a significant advantage heading into the return leg.
After a demanding schedule, Mojela was rested alongside several key players ahead of the second leg, especially after Stellies suffered a 2-0 defeat to Golden Arrows in their Premiership opener on Wednesday.
However, he returned to the starting lineup with the same lethal intent on the attacking front.
In a match that wasn’t broadcast, Stellenbosch faced a challenging second half after Ismael Toure was sent off following two yellow card offenses.
Despite this setback, Stellies’ relentless spirit saw them hold firm, maintaining their two-goal aggregate lead. Mojela then delivered a crucial goal 20 minutes from full-time, easing the pressure and securing their place in the next round.
71′ – ????????! – There’s no stopping Lehlogonolo Mojela this time!He fires home a lethal half-volley to give us our away goal ??????AS Vita Club 0??–1?? Stellenbosch (agg. 0-3) pic.twitter.com/lJgxNrOtNE
— Stellenbosch FC (@StellenboschFC) September 22, 2024
AS Vita managed to score late, but it wasn’t enough to overturn the aggregate score, as Stellenbosch held on to their lead.
The victory marks a significant achievement for the club, which is just eight years old.
Stellenbosch will now carry South Africa’s hopes in the CAF Confederation Cup as the country’s sole representative after Sekhukhune United’s elimination.
They join Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates, who have also advanced to the group stages of the CAF Champions League.
The draw for both the Champions League and Confederation Cup group stages is expected in the coming weeks, with a date to be confirmed soon.