Facing the chop, Stellenbosch FC has strengthened their team in the fight to evade the dreaded relegation axe.

Stellies find themselves in unfamiliar territory, on the bottom side of the Betway Premiership standings and with new head coach Gavin Hunt at the helm, all associated with the club would be hopeful of an escape to a safe position.

The club has brought in three key signings, including striker Tshegofatso Mabasa from Orlando Pirates.

“Stellenbosch FC is delighted to announce that the club has completed the triple signing of Tshegofatso Mabasa (29), Kobamelo Kodisang (26), and Mosa Lebusa (33) on short-term deals,” announced the club.

“Mabasa and Kodisang arrive on loan for the remainder of the current season from Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns, respectively, while Lebusa joins as a free agent after recently parting ways with Masandawana.”

“Our club and new Head Coach are extremely pleased to bring in players of the calibre of Mabasa, Kodisang, and Lebusa, who we believe can play a significant role in helping us achieve our remaining targets for this season,” said Stellenbosch FC CEO Rob Benadie.

“These signings have arrived on short-term deals but represent a clear statement of our intent to improve this season, and we are confident that they possess the quality to make an immediate impact.

“They are players of an international standard, having all represented South Africa, and bring an ingrained winning mentality and understanding of what it takes to compete at the highest level.

“That can only benefit our squad as we continually seek to raise our own standards and compete both domestically and on the continent.”

Mabasa joins the Maroons boasting more than 70 career goals for club and country, and famously won the 2023/24 Lesley Manyathela Golden Boot award. He will wear the No. 37 jersey.

Kodisang, meanwhile, arrives following a stint on loan with Portuguese top-flight side AVS, and previously also played out wide for the likes of SC Braga and Moreirense in Europe. He will don the No. 28 strip.

Lastly, defender Lebusa, signs as one of South Africa’s most decorated players, having won seven league titles, the Nedbank Cup, MTN8, Carling Knockout and CAF African Football League.

The trio have all begun training with the club and could be in line to make their respective debuts during the upcoming Betway Premiership fixture against Sekhukhune United on Tuesday.