The win marked a return to form for the Cape Winelands side, who climbed to 31 points - level with eighth-placed Golden Arrows - while Sekhukhune's hopes of a top-three finish suffered another setback as they continue adjusting to life without former coach Eric Tinkler.

Stellenbosch started brightly and nearly took an early lead when Olisa Ndah's header forced a sharp save from goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner. Their early intent paid off in the 24th minute when defender Godswill Enyinnaya found space on the right and unleashed a powerful strike into the top corner to open the scoring.

Sekhukhune looked for an immediate response, with Keletso Makgalwa testing Sage Stephens, but the Stellenbosch goalkeeper stood firm with a series of saves to preserve the lead. The hosts then took full advantage of a costly mistake just before halftime, as Genino Palace intercepted a loose pass from Leaner and calmly slotted home to make it 2-0 at the break.

The visitors attempted to shift momentum early in the second half with changes, introducing Tshepo Mokoane and Daniel Cardoso, and they showed signs of improvement as the game opened up. Their pressure paid off midway through the half when Bright Ndlovu finished off a swift counter-attack to reduce the deficit.

However, any hopes of a comeback were quickly extinguished. Within minutes, another defensive lapse proved costly as Stellenbosch restored their two-goal cushion. Chumani Butsaka combined neatly with Devin Titus before finishing clinically to make it 3-1.

Sekhukhune pushed forward in the closing stages, but Stephens remained a reliable presence in goal, notably denying Makgalwa late on to ensure there would be no further drama. Stellenbosch managed the final minutes with composure, making tactical substitutions to see out the result comfortably.

There was also late intrigue on the Sekhukhune bench, as goalkeeper Leaner was substituted and headed straight down the tunnel rather than joining his teammates.

Ultimately, Stellenbosch's clinical finishing and ability to punish mistakes proved decisive, giving Gavin Hunt's side a valuable three points heading into the final stretch of the season, while Sekhukhune are left searching for answers as their campaign continues to lose momentum.

Nedbank Cup Round of 32 draw