Struggling Stellenbosch FC at a crossroads ... and De Jong, Barker rumours aren't helping

While Stellenbosch FC are plunging into despair following their eighth defeat in just 14 league matches this season, the spotlight has shifted to two notable figures: Andre de Jong and Steve Barker.

The team's most recent performance remains concerning, following a 2-1 loss to Polokwane City at Athlone on Wednesday evening. This setback leaves Stellenbosch precariously positioned in 14th place on the log, only one point above the relegation playoff zone.

Further complicating matters, midfielder Andre de Jong, a critical player for Stellenbosch, is reportedly on the verge of signing with the prestigious Orlando Pirates. His contributions on the field have not only solidified his place within the team but also earned him a spot in New Zealand's 2026 Fifa World Cup squad. Stellenbosch did not confirm De Jong's move.

In tandem with De Jong's departure, interest in head coach Steve Barker is on the rise, particularly following the recent dismissal of three technical staff members at Tanzanian club Simba SC. Barker's notable achievements, including victory over Simba in last season's CAF Confederation Cup semi-final, have made him a respected candidate for other clubs.

In Wednesday's league encounter at Athlone Stadium, Polokwane City secured their sixth victory of the season with the win over Stellenbosch, climbing to a commendable sixth place on the log.

"I think it turned out to be a bit of a game of two halves. I think in the first half we just weren't good enough, didn't create enough chances," said Barker afterwards.

"The time that we conceded the goals obviously just put us on the back foot. Even at 1-0 going in at half-time, I would have felt that there would have been an opportunity to equalise. But to concede right on half-time, 2-0, was always going to be difficult.

"We did work hard to get back into it. If we had got an early goal, which we did, we could have gone on to get the second, and then the momentum of the game could have changed.

"We were fortunate to get our goal, but we were a bit unlucky after it was disallowed. There were enough half-chances in and around the box that fell for people who just didn't want to go in for us. It wasn't through lack of trying. On balance, we may deserve a point from it.

"When you're having those bad-luck seasons, you just concede unlucky goals, like penalties. On the other side, we created enough chances, but we're not getting them in the back of the net."

Barker said the club was looking at recruiting during the upcoming January transfer window.

The Stellenbosch players showed determination, but the team needs to reassess its strategy and focus. Moving forward, Stellenbosch FC finds itself at a critical crossroads, particularly given the significant off-the-pitch developments occurring concurrently.

With the league set to recess until late January 2026, the team must conduct a thorough assessment and implement strategic changes to enhance its standings and evade the relegation playoff zone.