Steve Barker hoping Stellenbosch FC's Omega Mdaka can bring his energy to Sundowns clash

Stellenbosch FC coach Steve Barker is hoping left back Omega Mdaka can continue his excellent start to the season when they face Mamelodi Sundowns in a crucial Betway Premiership clash at Athlone Stadium tomorrow.

Mdaka, 20, has been a revelation since stepping in on the left side of defence following Fawaaz Basadien’s departure at the end of last season. Ironically, Mdaka may come up against his former teammate, with Sundowns now deploying the Bafana Bafana wingback Basadien on the right rather than his usual left flank.

Mdaka, a product of the Kaizer Chiefs Academy, has impressed with a cultured left boot, joining attacks at every opportunity while maintaining his defensive discipline. Already, he’s picked up two Player of the Match awards this season — and now faces a stern test of his credentials against the reigning champions.

“I've said it before — he didn't get that many opportunities when Fawaaz was here, and obviously Fawaaz leaving opened the door for him. He's been absolutely brilliant since,” Barker said.

“He's played every minute of every game so far, and he plays with his heart on his sleeve — a lot of energy, a lot of intensity. He gets up and down, has a great left foot, defends well, helps us in attack... So very, very happy for Omega. He’s taken his opportunity with both hands.”

Equally impressive this season has been youngster Langelihlie Phili. The promising attacker was named yesterday in South Africa’s preliminary squad for the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile. Phili has already netted three goals this season — including the winner against AmaZulu in the MTN8 quarterfinal and the decisive strike against Marumo Gallants on Tuesday, which secured Stellies’ first Premiership victory of the campaign.

While Phili has largely been used off the bench, Barker isn’t ruling out more starts in the near future — although he stopped short of confirming the 19-year-old in the lineup against the Brazilians.

“Langelihlie … also very happy for him. Like I say, he's getting goals now, so the confidence is growing, the belief is growing,” said Barker.

“So yeah, we have a big squad with a lot of matches. It’s just about managing the players and giving them the right opportunities at the right time. Hopefully, he’ll get more starts going forward because he’s also put his hand up.

“He’s taken his opportunity, so I can only be happy and pleased for him and what he’s doing for the team.”