Hungry UL ready to make their mark on Varsity Football 2026

The University of Limpopo (UL) Mens is returning to the Varsity Football tournament with renewed belief and a clear ambition to compete with the country’s best. After missing out on the competition since the 2018 edition, the Limpopo side has spent months preparing for its return and is eager to prove it deserves to be in this season of varsity football tournament.

With confidence growing in the camp and strong support from the university community, UL is embracing the challenge ahead.

The team’s focus this season is to compete, grow and challenge for the title. While the head coach wants the players to develop from the experience, the squad is determined to fight for every point and make a lasting impression. With new additions strengthening the team, UL believes it has what it takes to compete against the country’s elite.

“Our preparations exceeded our expectations because we started with a good number of players and finished without any major injuries. That alone is a bonus going into the tournament,” said head coach Lesetja “Dukes” Laka.

Laka explained that the technical team’s biggest focus was preparing the players mentally for the demands of Varsity Football competition.

“We have worked very hard to be here, and we believe we deserve to compete on this stage. Our approach is the same in every game we want to be aggressive, intentional and collect maximum points,” he said.

Leading the team is captain Reggie Kabelo Masebe, who described the squad as hungry and fully committed to making the most of the opportunity.

“All I see in the players is hunger and a willingness to fight for the badge, the fans and the university. We believe this is a life changing moment, and we’re ready for it,” said Masebe.

“The only thing we’re looking forward to is the trophy. That’s our goal.”

UL Men will begin their campaign against DUT Men at Oscar Mpetha Stadium on Friday, 7 August, with kick-off scheduled for 18:30.

UL Provisional Squad:

Mosa Mabitsela, Phuti Selemela, Reggy Masebe, Fesbon Ngobeni, Maano Phaswana, Malwandla Makamu, Simon Malebe, Katlego Mathabathe, Lethabo Baloyi, Happyboy Mogomotsi, Theto Mohale, Loui Sekole, Tebogo Setlhako, Kagiso Shokane, Clement Makwea, Vuyo Sibuyi, Junior Matambele, Kholofelo Mamabolo, Sibusiso Mase, Lesedi Kgadima, Thierry Mohlabeng, Xola Nava, Phemelo Sebothoma, Freddy Kganyago.

Fixtures: HERE 

Tickets: HERE 

By: Lebogang Mathaba