FNB Players That Impressed in Varsity Football Round 7

The Varsity Football semi-finalists have been confirmed, with Wits, TUT, UJ and UP-Tuks securing their places in the last four. Wits defeated DUT 2-1 in Durban to finish top of the log, while UP-Tuks ended UJ’s winning streak with a 1-0 victory in the Gauteng derby. Defending champions UFS and UWC missed out on the semi-final places. UFS claimed a 2-1 victory at Shimla Park, but TUT’s 4-0 win over UL saw them advance on goal difference. The stage is now set for an exciting semi-final showdown, with the four remaining teams battling for a place in the 2026 Varsity Football final.

Here are the players who made the biggest impact in their respective matches.

Koketso Mokou (UP-Tuks)

Called up to his biggest test in Tuks’ must win against UJ, Koketso Mokou lived up to the task keeping a clean sheet against log leaders to secure Stripe Generation their first semi-final spot. Filling in the big boots of newly roped in former Cape Town City shot-stopper Gennaro Johnson, Mokou made crucial saves including a one-on-one block to deny UJ an equalizer. The debutant’s player of the match performance delivered Nicholas Stothard’s troops a much-needed victory to stay in contention for the coveted silverware.

Sachile Nyathi (UFS)

Sachile Nyathi stood out with a moment of individual brilliance, scoring a spectacular bicycle kick to give UFS the lead. His technique, timing and composure produced one of the standout moments of the match, particularly in the difficult wet conditions.

Tebogo Masemola (Wits)

Masemola was influential for Wits, producing a brilliant run down the left flank before delivering a quality cross that allowed Thato Putswane to score the second goal. His pace, movement and creativity helped Wits take control of the match and ultimately secure the 2-1 victory.

Maano Phaswana (UL)

Maano Phaswana stood out for UL with a determined performance capped by a powerful header in the 71st minute to score his side’s only goal. With UL trailing 4-0, his fearless finish captured the team’s resilience and never-say-die spirit, refusing to give up despite the difficult circumstances.

Fixtures: HERE

Tickets: HERE