Magesi FC Hold Stellenbosch FC to 1-1 Draw
Magesi FC preserved their unbeaten start under coach John Maduka with a spirited 1-1 draw against Stellenbosch FC in the Betway Premiership at the Seshego Stadium on Wednesday evening, 13 August 2025. Coming from behind after conceding early, the Limpopo newcomers earned a valuable point to climb to 10th place with two points from as many games, following their goalless draw with Polokwane City over the weekend. For Stellenbosch, known as the Maroons, this result marked their first point of the season after a 2-0 loss to Kaizer Chiefs, lifting them to 13th position above TS Galaxy, Richards Bay, and Orlando Pirates. The match, played in chilly conditions, showcased resilience from both sides in an action-packed encounter that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Maduka, who took over Magesi after guiding them to promotion from the Motsepe Foundation Championship last season, has instilled a fighting spirit in his team. The former Bloemfontein Celtic and Royal AM boss emphasised defensive solidity and quick counters, tactics that paid off as Magesi responded swiftly to Stellenbosch’s opener. Stellenbosch, under Steve Barker, aimed to bounce back from their opening defeat but settled for a share of the spoils despite dominating parts of the game. This draw extends Magesi’s impressive home form, where they remain unbeaten in their last five competitive matches at Seshego Stadium, a venue known for its passionate local support.
The hosts started brightly, creating the majority of chances in the first half. On 10 minutes, Stellenbosch goalkeeper Sage Stephens was forced into a fine save to deny a dangerous effort from Magesi’s forward line. However, it was the visitors who struck first in the 19th minute. New Zealand international Andre de Jong, a key signing for Stellenbosch with his experience from over 100 A-League appearances, played a precise pass to Langelihle Phili on the left. The 23-year-old winger, who has been a rising star since joining from Cape Town Spurs, lashed a powerful shot into the far corner from a tight angle, beating Magesi goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze. Phili’s goal, his first of the season, highlighted Stellenbosch’s counter-attacking threat.
Magesi refused to buckle and equalised just eight minutes later in the 27th minute. Kgomotso Mosadi, the 25-year-old winger who earned Man of the Match honours for his tireless performance, rose highest to head home a well-delivered cross from Mcedi Vandala. Mosadi, a product of the club’s youth system, has now scored in back-to-back games, underlining his importance to Maduka’s setup. Stephens made two more crucial saves before halftime to keep the scores level at 1-1, preventing Magesi from taking the lead.
The second half saw Magesi come out flying, attempting long-range shots on three occasions early on. Stephens pulled off another key save before the hour mark to thwart their efforts. Stellenbosch introduced substitutes like Muzomuhle Khanyi, who nearly made an impact in the 71st minute by forcing a good save from Chipezeze in a rare attacking foray. Magesi pushed for a winner in the closing stages, but their attempts failed to hit the target, leading to a hard-earned draw.
Match statistics from sources like Sofascore reveal a balanced contest. Magesi held 48% possession to Stellenbosch’s 52%, with shots at 12-10 in favour of the hosts (5-4 on target). Corners were even at 4 each, while fouls stood at 15-12 for Magesi. The game saw minimal disciplinary action, with only one yellow card issued to a Stellenbosch player. Expected goals (xG) favoured Magesi slightly at 1.2-0.9, reflecting their dominance in creating chances. Mosadi topped the ratings with an 8/10 for his goal and work rate, while Stephens earned 7.5/10 for his saves. De Jong (7/10) was influential for Stellenbosch, completing 85% of his passes and providing the assist.
Post-match, Maduka expressed satisfaction with the point: “We showed character to come back against a strong side like Stellenbosch. It’s early days, but two points from two games is a solid foundation for a promoted team.” Barker rued missed opportunities: “We took the lead but couldn’t hold on. Credit to Magesi—they fought hard. We’ll build on this point.” Fan reactions on social media were positive for Magesi, with posts praising Mosadi: “Kgomotso Mosadi cancelled out Langelihle Phili’s opener as Magesi held Stellenbosch to a 1-1 draw.” Stellenbosch supporters appreciated the fightback but called for more clinical finishing.
This result boosts Magesi’s confidence as they aim to establish themselves in the top flight, having won the Championship with a record 62 points last season. Stellenbosch, who finished third in 2024/25 and reached the Nedbank Cup final, will look to regain momentum. Next up, Magesi face a tough away trip, while Stellenbosch host a midweek fixture. In a league where early points can define survival or success, this draw could prove pivotal for both teams’ campaigns.
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