Coach Barker says Stellenbosch's game against Zamalek one of the biggest in club history

Stellenbosch FC coach Steve Barker. Photo Credit: Stellenbosch FC

Stellenbosch FC coach Steve Barker has described meeting Egyptian and African giants Zamalek SC in Tuesday’s CAF Confederation Cup quarterfinal, first-leg match at Loftus Stadium as probably the biggest game in the South African club’s history.

He said Zamalek were at a different level after winning the CAF Champions League and the CAF Confederation Cup several times; hence, Stellenbosch FC were privileged to take on such opponents.

“There is always a level and playing on the continent is at a different level. We are playing a team such as Zamalek who are the defending champions. It becomes a massive game for us and I don't think I would be wrong to say that this is one of the biggest games the club is involved in,” he said.

He said the Western Cape-based team is ready to compete at the highest level after gaining experience playing top teams in South Africa.

"We played in the Carling [Black Label Cup] final and then MTN final, it shows that the club is progressing to be playing big matches,” he told Stellenbosch media.

“We are privileged to be in this position but at the same time, I think we have earned the right to be in the same park as Zamalek. A lot of people believe we don't have an opportunity but our team is built upon resilience to overcome challenges,” Barker added.

Stellenbosch FC qualified for the CAF Confederation Cup quarterfinal stage in their maiden campaign with a game to spare following a 2-0 group stage victory over Mali's Stade Malien.