Stellenbosch FC’s reserve team is gearing up to participate in the prestigious Premier League Next Generation Cup in the United Kingdom from Thursday 1 to Sunday 4 August.
The Cape Winelands team has been invited to compete in the competition for a third consecutive season after winning the domestic DStv Diski Challenge trophy last season. Stellies have been drawn in Group A alongside Aston Villa, Crystal Palace and Tottenham Hotspur.
The Maroon Machine previously clinched the Next Gen title with a stunning 7-2 victory over Leicester City in 2022. but narrowly missed out on repeating their success last year, finishing as runners-up after a penalty shoot-out defeat against Wolverhampton Wanderers.
This year’s competition will feature four rounds of 50-minute matches, hosted at Aston Villa’s Bodymoor Training Ground. The top two teams from each group will advance to the final, set to be held at Loughborough University Stadium.
“Competing in the Premier League Next Gen Cup for the third time in three years is a great privilege for our players and our club,” Stellenbosch FC reserve team coach Evangelos Vellios said.
“It’s a great opportunity for our brand, town and supporters to represent South Africa in such a great tournament. We did really well in the last two years, winning one edition and reaching the final of the other while competing against teams like Nottingham Forest, Leicester City, West Ham United and Wolverhampton Wanderers. Now we have the opportunity to compete against the likes of Tottenham Hotspur, Aston Villa, Crystal Palace and Everton, which is just a dream come true for our boys.
“It gives them the opportunity to test themselves against some of the best in the world, if you consider the stature of the English Premier League, and against teams from India who have shown tremendous growth in their football.”
- The Stellenbosch FC touring squad: Dejean Ah Shene, David Passman, Tyler Cicero, Simthandile Sishi, Rijul Pillay, Tylon Smith, Shaakir Ahmed, Vuyolwethu Andrieas, Ethan Felix, Zenden Bell, Keanan Johannessen, Liam Slade, Kyle Bailey, Jean Topley, Roy-Keane Avontuur, Cheswyn Philander, Langelihle Phili and Quwan Plaatjies.
- All matches will be broadcast live on SuperSport Schools (DStv channel 216).
