CPUT confident of positive start in Varsity Football Women 2026

CPUT Women Football are eager to make a positive start to their Varsity Football 2026 campaign when they take on the University of Limpopo (UL) Women at Tuks Stadium, University of Pretoria, on Saturday.

The Cape side enters the tournament in high spirits after a productive pre-season, with head coach Sibongiseni Khamlana expressing confidence in his squad's preparations ahead of the highly anticipated competition.

"Our preparation has gone really well. The players have shown great commitment throughout the training period, and we’ve worked hard on improving both our physical conditioning and tactical awareness. Our main focus has been building consistency, strengthening our teamwork, and ensuring that everyone understands their role within the squad. We’re confident that the work we’ve put in will put us in a strong position heading into the tournament,” she said.

Khamlana believes CPUT has assembled a balanced squad capable of competing against the country's top university teams.

"We’ve welcomed some exciting new players who have settled into the squad quickly and brought fresh energy to the team. At the same time, our returning players provide valuable experience and leadership. Rather than relying on individuals, we believe our biggest strength is the collective effort of the entire squad, and we’re excited to see everyone contribute throughout the tournament,” said Khamlana.

The coach is under no illusion about the challenge that lies ahead but is optimistic about what his players can achieve.

"Our expectation is to be competitive in every match and represent CPUT with pride. We know the standard of the competition is high, but we believe we have the quality to challenge any team. A successful campaign would be one where we perform to our full potential, continue improving with every game, and put ourselves in contention for the latter stages of the tournament."

She also acknowledged the intensity of the competition and the importance of maintaining consistency throughout the tournament.

"The biggest challenge will be maintaining consistency against strong opposition in a demanding tournament. Every team will be motivated to perform, so there will be no easy matches. We’ll overcome this by staying disciplined, sticking to our game plan, supporting one another on and off the field, and taking each match one step at a time."

CPUT Provisional Squad:

Thandiswa Gwenteshe, Amanda Poti, Anebhongo Solani, Lisakhanya Ntozini, Atupele Schoeman, Rhulani Sibongile Mthethwa, Sibahle Mlamla, Boethatelo Moreki, Qubimpi Ntombizonke, Zilungile Mathiya, Zozibini Jim, Nozicelo Mandla, Aseko Nqodi, Mosetsanagape Leepile, Sinothile Makhanya, Snothando Mangaliso, Liyema Tom, Kiyhana Daniels, Ziyanda Raraza, Bontle Mkhangwana, Sinelisiwe Phumlomo, Yandiswa Ndlangamandla.

Fixtures: HERE

Tickets: HERE