Stellenbosch FC have reportedly secured a short-term loan deal for 20-year-old defender Asekho Tiwani from Mamelodi Sundowns.
The young left-back, who joined Sundowns from Sekhukhune United in July 2024, made 15 appearances across all competitions last season and has already represented South Africa’s U20 side at the FIFA U20 World Cup.
Tiwani’s move comes as Sundowns’ new coach Gavin Hunt decided not to retain Azerbaijani defender Turan Manafov, who returned to Gabala FC on loan for the remainder of the 2025–26 season.
Tough Competition at Sundowns Limits Opportunities
Despite his impressive track record at Sekhukhune United, Tiwani has struggled to break into Sundowns’ first team this season.
The club boasts seasoned left-backs including Aubrey Modiba, Thato Sibiya, and Fawaaz Basadien, which left limited opportunities for the young star.
According to iDiski Times reporter Sinethemba Makonco, the loan deal to Stellenbosch FC is complete, pending an official announcement.
This marks the third player to move from Sundowns to the Cape Winelands club recently, following Mosa Lebusa, who joined permanently, and Kobamelo Kodisang, who moved on loan.
Looking Ahead to More Game Time
For Tiwani, the loan presents an opportunity to gain valuable match experience and showcase his talents in the Premier Soccer League.
The young defender’s pace, defensive awareness, and experience on the international stage make him a promising addition to Stellenbosch’s squad as they look to strengthen their backline.
Stellenbosch FC fans will be hoping Tiwani can quickly adapt and make an impact during his loan spell, particularly as the team navigates the challenges of the mid-season schedule.
Sundowns Held in CAF Champions League Thriller
Meanwhile, back at Sundowns, the team was held to a 2-2 draw by Sudanese giants Al-Hilal in their CAF Champions League group stage clash at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria on Friday.
Coach Miguel Cardoso expressed frustration after the game, noting missed opportunities and defensive lapses.
“We had more than enough chances to finish this game off and need to be clinical in the box.
This is a serious responsibility,” he said. He added, “They entered our box twice and scored.
It was pretty naïve from our defence.”
The draw leaves both Sundowns and Al-Hilal level at the top of their group with five points each after three games.
The reverse fixture is set for Friday, 30 January 2026, which could prove decisive in the group standings.
Balancing Player Development and Continental Ambitions
For Sundowns, managing player rotation while competing domestically and continentally is always a delicate task.
Sending Tiwani on loan to Stellenbosch ensures the youngster gets minutes on the pitch without sacrificing the club’s competitiveness in the CAF Champions League and local competitions.
Coach Gavin Hunt and the technical team will likely monitor Tiwani’s performances closely, evaluating how he grows and what he could bring back to Sundowns in the future.
Fans Anticipate Exciting Matches Ahead
With Tiwani joining Stellenbosch and Sundowns gearing up for critical CAF Champions League fixtures, fans across the league have plenty to look forward to.
Supporters are eager to see whether the young defender can make his mark at Stellies while Sundowns aim to recover points in the continental competition.
The coming weeks promise intense action and potential turning points for both clubs, making this a key period in South African football this season.
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