PSL January reinforcements hand Stellenbosch FC a lifeline
Transfer Talk
Stellenbosch FC striker Tshegofatso Mabasa is expected to play a key role as the club looks to climb the league table following a busy January transfer window.
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Stellenbosch FC may well count themselves among the biggest beneficiaries of the recently closed January transfer window, with their new signings expected to play a crucial role in lifting the club up the table and rescuing what has been a difficult campaign.
A major shift came with the appointment of veteran coach Gavin Hunt, who replaced Steve Barker following his move to Simba SC. Barker had endured a challenging start to the season, as Stellies struggled to find consistency and rhythm in their performances.
Those concerns were heightened as the club spent much of the campaign hovering dangerously close to the relegation zone, prompting decisive action from management to strengthen the squad.
The reinforcements have since arrived, and with several experienced and recognisable names now in the dressing room, the focus for the remainder of the season will be on recovery and correcting the shortcomings from the opening months.
Stellies head into this phase of the campaign on the back of a heavy 3–0 defeat to Algerian outfit CR Belouizdad in a Caf Confederations Cup group-stage encounter over the weekend.
They currently sit 12th on the league standings, with only two points separating them from 15th-placed Orbit College, although they carry some advantage having played two matches less.
The club’s new arrivals have already started to make their presence felt, including the on-loan Orlando Pirates striker Tshegofatso Mabasa, who has emerged as one of the standout recruits in the league.
Alongside experienced defender Mosa Lebusa and Wayde Jooste, their leadership and quality are expected to be key under Hunt’s guidance, while the addition of Kobamelo Kodisang adds further depth and attacking options.
Similar to Stellies, Sekhukhune United also had exciting new signings including Thato Khiba, Lehlohonolo Mojela, and Lebogang Phiri, as they continue to strengthen their squad.
Their recruitment drive reflects growing ambition, as they aim to establish themselves as consistent challengers for top honours, with a long-term vision focused on sustained competitiveness in the coming seasons.