Steve Barker Hails Ex Kaizer Chiefs Star After Replacing Basadien at Stellenbosch
- Stellenbosch FC have moved on after Fawaaz Basadien's departure from the club this summer, with a former Kaizer Chiefs defender taking over his position
- The Stellies duly replaced the South African international after his amazing performance in the Premier Soccer League last season
- Steve Barker has hailed the Stellies new left back after starting the season so well in that position
Stellenbosch FC coach Steve Barker has showered praised on a former Kaizer Chiefs defender after filling Fawaaz Basadien's shoes at the Stellies this season.
The Stellies lost Basadien to Sundowns this summer after his resounding performance last season which earned him the Player of the Season award at club level.

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The Maroons have successfully replaced the Bafana Bafana and was named Man of the Match in their win over Sekhukhune United in the MTN8 semi-final first leg.
Barker on Mdaka's performance against Sekhukhune
Barker while appreciating the growing interest in players like Basadien, he also praised Omega Mdaka for stepping up when given the opportunity.
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“We knew there would be interest in players like Fawaaz, not just locally but also from clubs in North Africa,” Barker said.
“That’s why we brought Omega into the squad a season ago — knowing he might need to be ready sooner rather than later.
“Last season, he didn’t get a lot of game time, but he trained with the team daily and got minutes here and there, especially when Fawaaz was injured or needed rest.”

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The Stellenbosch FC coach also explained how good the Stellies are in preparing for next player to take up the outgoing player's position.
“I think his time has come now. One of the things we pride ourselves on is planning ahead — preparing the next player in line so they’re ready to step up when needed," he added.
“I’m really happy for Omega. He’s raising his hand and performing well.”
Barker also expressed his satisfaction with Lesiba Nku’s performance against Sekhukhune United, noting the winger has been unfortunate not to feature more frequently in the starting lineup.
“Obviously, I’m happy with what Lesiba has done. He’s been a bit unlucky not to start more games,” Barker said.
“In fact, if the pitch had been more playable, we probably would’ve gone with a 4-2-3-1 formation. But with the rain overnight and throughout the day, we made a late call to switch to a three-man midfield, bringing in Ibrahim Jabaar. It felt like the kind of match where he could be really effective.”
The South African mentor also opened up on what he told the player before coming on as a substitute.
“Lesiba got his chance, and just before he came on, I reminded him that he’s a star — a player with real quality and an X-factor. He brings moments of a higher level, and I think the pass he made for the goal proved that.”
Stellenbosch FC will face another difficult side in their next game. Barker and his boy will lock horns with Orlando Pirates in the Betway Premiership on Wednesday, August 20, 2025.
Mdaka reflects on positive start this season
Briefly News earlier reported that Mdaka has shared his thoughts on his impressive performance at the start of this season in Stellenbosch FC colours.
The Kaizer Chiefs academy product slot into the void Basadien left behind at the Stellies after moving to Sundowns and he didn't disappoint.
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Source: Briefly News