Stellies' new signings made an immediate impact and goalkeeper Sage Stephens played a decisive role in securing maximum points away from home.

Both sides fielded debutants, with Hunt handing first starts to Tshegofatso Mabasa and Wayde Jooste for Stellenbosch, while Babina Noko introduced Tidiane Diomande and Sydney Malivha. The home side began on the front foot and almost struck early when Diomande tested Stephens with a powerful effort from range inside the opening minutes.

Sekhukhune continued to enjoy plenty of possession in the early stages, but Stellies gradually settled and began creating openings of their own. Langelihle Phili went close midway through the first half, forcing Renaldo Leaner into a sharp save, while Enyinnaya Godswill was also denied as the visitors grew in confidence.

The breakthrough arrived in the 33rd minute following sustained pressure from the visitors. Mabasa, lively throughout the first half, fired a shot inside the area that took a deflection off Daniel Cardoso before rolling over the line, giving the debutant a goal in his first outing for the club.

Sekhukhune looked to respond almost immediately, with Malivha striking a dangerous free-kick that was once again dealt with by Stephens. Eric Tinkler made an early change after the interval, withdrawing Diomande for Ellis Rammala as the hosts searched for an equaliser.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with the hosts pushing forward through central and wide areas while Stellenbosch focused on defensive organisation and game management. The visitors survived a major scare when Athenkosi Mcaba produced a crucial goal-line clearance to deny Rammala's header, while Stephens continued to frustrate the home side with saves from Vuyo Letlapa and Bright Ndlovu late on.

Despite late pressure and six minutes of added time, Sekhukhune were unable to find a way past a resolute Stellenbosch defence. The final whistle confirmed a winning start for Hunt and lifted Stellenbosch up to 13th on the table, while Sekhukhune slipped to fourth after failing to capitalise on their home advantage.

Nedbank Cup Round of 32 draw