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Stellenbosch FC defender Siviwe Nkwali says the club has drawn valuable lessons from their CAF Confederation Cup campaign and are determined to use the experience as fuel in their push to return next season.
The Winelands side will conclude their group stage journey with a dead-rubber clash against Tanzania’s Singida Black Stars on Sunday, having already been eliminated from the competition.
Speaking after Stellies were drawn against Golden Arrows in the Nedbank Cup last 16, Nkwali reflected on the key takeaways from their African adventure and the motivation it has provided.
"We have learned that we need to be more stronger and play at a higher level and tempo, so that is the positive side," said Nkwali
The junior international says their focus will have to quickly switch to domestic football while they also find their feet under new coach Gavin Hunt.
Nkwali was also quick to point out that they are still disappointed from not making it past the group stage in the Confederation Cup because Stellies have a winning mentality.
On facing Arrows in a week’s time, Nkwali admits the opponent have been on form and their tie would be tough to call.
"We were expecting a tough opponent, even if it was a team from the National First Division. As Stellenbosch, we always expect tough opponents, so we are looking forward to the game away in Durban. I am happy that we are still in the round of 16."
