Stellenbosch coach Gavin Hunt lauds Wonderboy Makhubu after Nedbank Cup victory

The win saw the Western Cape side return to winning ways as they knocked the Soweto giants out in the first round of the competition, producing a disciplined and energetic performance at the DHL Stadium.

With regular forward Tshegofatso Mabasa unavailable, Hunt handed Makhubu a starting role up front, and the striker repaid that faith with a display that caught the coach's eye.

"Firstly, great performance, really tough performance," Hunt told SuperSport TV after the match. "I was disappointed we didn't make it 3-1 there."

Hunt acknowledged that Chiefs had their moments, but felt his side handled the pressure well in what he described as a classic cup encounter.

"They had chances, but that's what your goalkeeper is there for. It was a real cup tie on a very difficult pitch - hard to play and bumpy," he said.

The former Chiefs mentor reserved special praise for Makhubu, highlighting the striker's presence and attributes.

"I thought Wonderboy Makhubu was outstanding - a proper number nine footballer," Hunt added. "It's something we really need, and he's coming up nicely, so fair play to him."

Hunt also commended his midfield unit for their contribution as Stellenbosch continue to build momentum under his guidance.

"To everybody - Titus, Jabaar, everyone in midfield - it was important. We're trying to build something from here," he said.

Both sides now shift focus to continental action, with Stellenbosch set to host Otoho d'Oyo in the CAF Confederation Cup on Sunday.

The Cape outfit will approach the clash in high spirits following their win over Chiefs, who in contrast will be desperate to rediscover form when they take on Al Masry as they chase qualification for the knockout stages on the same day.