Why Junior Mendieta is the most important player for Stellenbosch FC

Stellenbosch FC midfielder, Junior Mendieta has been the most influential player for the Cape side and here is why.

Mendieta started his career in the DStv Premiership in the 2020/21 joining Stellenbosch FC from Primera Nacional side Lanús II.

And after featuring in over 70 games for the Cape side it is safe to say the Argentinian has been a revelation for Stellenbosch in attack, especially this season.

This campaign, Mendieta has scored five goals and provided six assists in 21 league matches.

MENDIETA’S IMPACT FOR STELLIES

Mendieta has always been impactful in Stellies’ attack since his arrival. Even though the 29-year-old has never been a prolific scorer, his build up play is one to look out for.

In his first season with Stellies, Mendieta had a goal contribution of five in 22 appearance in all competitions.

However his statistics have improved as he has seemingly adjusted well in SA’s topflght and SA environment.

In the game against AmaZulu, on Friday, 17 March, Mendieta secured his eighth assist of the season, in just 23 appearances this season in all competitions.

His performance against AmaZulu earned him his sixth Man of the Match accolade.

In addition, he is also the player with the most assists in the DStv Premiership this season so far.

The rest of the top three spots for the most assists are occupied by Mendieta’s teammate, Iqraam Rayners and Mamelodi Sundowns wing-back Thapelo Morena.

After the Usuthu clash, the 29-year-old said that he is happy with his current form and the way the team is playing. However, he believes that there is more they still need to improve on.

THE ARGENTINIAN ON HIS PERFORMANCE

“I am very happy with this performance and that of the team. I love the way the team is playing, the way the team is performing,” said Mendieta on SuperSport TV.

“Yes, there are areas that we still need to improve on, but the momentum is still with us, and we just got to keep going.”

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