Stellenbosch FC striker Bradley Grobler is expected to miss Wednesday’s Carling Knockout Round of 16 clash against Durban City following the death of his father, former Moroka Swallows striker Les Grobler.

News of Les Grobler’s passing emerged on Monday, prompting tributes from South African football supporters and members of the local football fraternity.

Bradley Grobler, 38, is expected to be granted compassionate leave as he mourns his father’s passing, ruling him out of Stellenbosch’s match at Chatsworth Stadium.

Blow for Stellenbosch’s cup campaign

The potential absence comes as Gavin Hunt’s side prepares for a difficult away fixture in the Carling Knockout.

Bradley Grobler, , remains one of the most experienced strikers in the Premier Soccer League (PSL), having built a standout career in South African football.

He has scored 130 PSL career goals and is chasing the league’s all-time scoring record held by Peter Shalulile, who has 134 goals.

He was the Golden Boot winner in the 2020/21 season with 16 goals for SuperSport United.

He also has 12 Bafana Bafana caps to his name and two goals for the national team.

Grobler’s experience and finishing ability would be valuable to Stellenbosch, but football takes a back seat as he deals with the death of his father.

Les Grobler played a major role in Bradley’s career

Les was more than a father to Bradley. He was also his first coach and played a central role in developing his footballing ability.

Les began coaching his son when Bradley was just three years old and continued to guide him until he signed his first professional contract at the age of 19.

Bradley has previously acknowledged his father’s influence, crediting him as an important part of his achievements in the game.

Les Grobler also established his own legacy in South African football, having played as a striker for Moroka Swallows during the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Stellenbosch FC’s clash with Durban City will go ahead amid the uncertainty over Grobler’s availability.

Kick-off is at 19:00.

The match is the eighth and final clash of the Round of 16 stage. The quarter-final draw will be conducted following Wednesday’s match.