Hunt admits Msimango needed protection after Stellenbosch debut

Stellenbosch FC manager Gavin Hunt says new defender Given Msimango was not yet fully fit when he made his first appearance for the club.

The centre-back completed a high-profile move from Kaizer Chiefs in August 2026, joining the Cape Winelands side as part of a multi-player swap deal involving Langelihle Phili.

However, Msimango’s lack of match fitness meant he had to watch Stellenbosch’s opening fixtures from the sidelines. He was also unavailable for their dramatic 3-3 draw with Polokwane City.

The former Amakhosi defender eventually made his official debut on Tuesday, playing in Stellenbosch’s goalless 0-0 draw with Durban City FC at Chatsworth Stadium.

Hunt was encouraged by Msimango’s performance but acknowledged that the player’s conditioning remained a concern.

“He did well, I believe he was good, he’ll be good for us,” Hunt said after the match.

“But obviously he hasn’t been fit. He came here very unfit. I should have protected him in the last 20 minutes, which I did.”

Stellenbosch will next face Sekhukhune United on 11 September 2026 as they look to improve a slow start to their domestic campaign.

Hunt’s side have won just one of their first five matches, making victory against Babina Noko particularly important.

Three points would move the Western Cape club up the Betway Premiership table and provide immediate stability to their campaign.