Stellenbosch FC held reigning champions Zamalek SC to a hard-fought 0-0 draw in the first leg of the CAF Confederation Cup quarter-final at DHL Stadium on Wednesday.

Competing in the knockout stages of the CAF Confederation Cup for the first time, debutants Stellenbosch FC showed a good account of themselves by holding defending champions Zamalek SC of Egypt to a goalless draw in Cape Town.

Steve Barker’s side enjoyed the bulk of possession in a tie that otherwise offered little by way of clear-cut-chances, but the result has left the team from the Cape Winelands in with a shout of reaching the last-four of the competition.

“…The main objective was always for us to go to Cairo still having a chance,” Barker said. “We didn’t want to go there with the game dead and buried, and I believe that by us not conceding an away goal the pressure shifts onto Zamalek.

“With good preparation, knowing what we now know, and through analysis and coming up with a good game plan we plan to get that goal. As it is, even if they score one, we would only need to score once as well [because of the away goals rule].”

“We’re looking forward to it, and relieved that we were able to showcase our ability as a team. Kudos to all of the South African teams [competing in CAF competitions].

“Over the last two days none of us conceded a goal, so hopefully our brothers in Sundowns and Pirates can set the tone on Tuesday and get into the semi-finals—we wish them luck—and then we can go to Cairo still believing that we have the chance of doing the same.”

The second leg of the CAF Confederation Cup quarter-final clash between Stellenbosch FC and Zamalek SC is set to take place in Cairo on Wednesday, 9 April 2025.