Stellenbosch sign Nigerian playmaker Lateef Kazeem ahead of Kaizer Chiefs showdown

Stellenbosch FC have strengthened their attacking options with the signing of Nigerian midfielder Lateef Adeyanju Kazeem on a free transfer from Plateau United, with the 20-year-old potentially in line to make his debut against Kaizer Chiefs.

The South African club confirmed that they had completed the deal after concluding the necessary formalities last month, adding another attacking option to Gavin Hunt’s squad as they seek greater consistency in the 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign.

“Stellenbosch Football Club is delighted to announce the signing of Nigerian midfielder Lateef Adeyanju Kazeem on a free transfer,” the club announced.

“Having concluded all formalities last month, Stellenbosch FC has bolstered its ranks with the acquisition of Lateef Adeyanju Kazeem, who most recently plied his trade in the Nigerian PFL with Plateau United.”

Kazeem arrives to bolster Stellenbosch attack

Born in Saki, Nigeria, Kazeem is a left-footed attacking midfielder who operates primarily as a number 10 but can also play out wide.

The youngster will wear the number 29 shirt at Stellenbosch as he begins a new chapter in South African football after leaving Plateau United, who compete in Nigeria’s professional league.

His ability to operate in multiple attacking positions could give Hunt additional tactical flexibility as Stellenbosch look to improve their attacking output and build momentum in the league.

Kazeem could make his first appearance for the club when Stellenbosch travel to face Kaizer Chiefs on Tuesday at FNB Stadium. The match is scheduled to kick off at 19:30.

His arrival follows Stellenbosch’s announcement of the signing of former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Darrel Matsheke, as the club continues to reinforce its squad.

Hunt seeks consistency after mixed start

Stellenbosch have endured an inconsistent opening to the 2026/27 season, collecting nine points from their first seven matches to sit seventh in the Betway Premiership standings.

Hunt’s side have recorded two victories, three draws and two defeats, highlighting the need to string together positive results if they are to climb the table.

Their campaign began with a narrow 1-0 home defeat to AmaZulu FC before they produced an entertaining 3-3 draw away against Polokwane City.

The Maroons subsequently secured their first league victory with a convincing 3-1 win over Marumo Gallants at Athlone Stadium.

However, that result was followed by a 1-0 away defeat to Golden Arrows, leaving Stellenbosch searching for greater consistency.

They then recorded consecutive draws against Durban City and Sekhukhune United before returning to winning ways in their most recent league outing.

Kruger United victory provides timely boost

Stellenbosch entered the recent break on a positive note after claiming a crucial 1-0 away victory over Kruger United.

Keanan Johannesen scored the decisive goal in the first half to secure all three points and give Hunt’s team a timely boost ahead of their next assignment.

The victory offers Stellenbosch an opportunity to build momentum, although their trip to face Kaizer Chiefs presents a significant challenge.

Kazeem’s arrival adds another option to a squad that has already undergone several changes, with the club bringing in a number of players to strengthen different areas of the team.

Stellenbosch’s new signings

Kazeem is among a lengthy list of new arrivals at Stellenbosch ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

The club’s signings include Ashley du Preez, Bradley Grobler, Darrel Matsheke, Sinoxolo Kwayiba, Thabiso Lebitso, George Matlou, Njabulo Blom, Orlando Avuzwa Mbembe, Tlakusani Mthethwa, Given Msimango, Surprise Nhlabathi, Kgaogelo Ramushu, Qobolwakhe Sibande, Solomon Agbasi, Gopolang Taunyana and Nathan Garrow.

With the Nigerian midfielder now added to their ranks, Stellenbosch will hope his creativity and versatility can help them improve their performances as the season progresses.

The immediate focus, however, will be Tuesday’s meeting with Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium, where Kazeem could have his first opportunity to make an impression in South African football.