Stellenbosch FC head coach Steve Barker has explained how they have mastered to fit in replacements at the club after Fawaaz Basadien left but Omega Mdaka closed the gap immediately.
Stellies signed Mdaka in July last year after he left Kaizer Chiefs before making his debut for the senior side. The 21-year-old played most of his football in the Stellies DStv Diski Challenge last season and only played few minutes in the senior side.
Barker explained how the club anticipated the move of Basadien, hence they signed Mdaka and gave him time to gel into the team.
Mdaka produced an outstanding performance since the 2025/26 season started, which saw him named Man of the Match in the MTN8 first leg semi-final 2-0 win against Sekhukhune United at Danie Craven Stadium.
“I wouldn’t say that that’s our model. It’s not like that’s exactly what we just want to be doing,” Barker told the media.
“But I do think you do recognise certain players, like for Fawaaz that there would be interest, there was interest not only locally, but also from North Africa.
“Hence a season ago Omega got signed and brought into the squad and he had to buy his time, he didn’t play many minutes last season, but training every day with the team getting his minutes when Fawaaz was maybe injured or needed to be rested.
“I think it’s now his time to come, and I think that’s maybe what we do well is anticipate what may happen going forward, and in the meantime, start grooming the next player or two to then be the next one to step up.
“So again, just happy for Omega and he’s ready to put his hand up and is doing well.”
Did you know that the iDiski Times Digital Newspaper is completely free! Download it now by clicking the button below or fill in the form to have it sent to you every week.
