Stellenbosch host Fadlu Davids' Simba in Confederation Cup semi
Stellenbosch face a stern test of their credentials in their CAF Confederation Cup semi-final first-leg clash against Simba SC on Sunday.
Stellenbosch can't afford to drop points, says coach Steve Barker
Barker's charges are in fifth place on the league standings, just two points adrift of Sekhukhune United in third.
They are fighting once again for a CAF place, after securing third place last season, and qualifying for the CAF Confederation Cup, where they currently find themselves in the semi-finals after knocking out defending champions Zamalek last week.
Stellies take on Tanzanian side Simba FC in their first leg on Sunday but must first turn their attentions to 11th-placed Usuthu.
Barker said on IOL: "It's a massive game for us in the league. Obviously, it's important for us to get points.
"We need to fight for that third position, which is important for us as we want to continue playing on the continent.
"So, yes, a massive game against a team that has turned their fortunes around this season.
So, I'm expecting a tough encounter."
Barker added that team morale is high but they must refocus their efforts to beat AmaZulu.
"The mood in the camp is really high after our success in reaching the semi-final of the Confed. But we're very cognisant of the fact that the league is very important for us. So, it's important for us to be able to get three points," he explained.
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