Players to watch in Varsity Football 2026

Every season, Varsity Football provides a stage for the country's most promising university footballers to showcase their talent in front of coaches, scouts and supporters. The competition has become a proven stepping stone to the professional game, with numerous former players going on to enjoy successful careers in South African football.

With the 2026 tournament set to kick off on 7 August, another exciting generation of players will be ready to seize the opportunity. Here are the players we believe will make the biggest impact throughout the season.

Tebogo Masemola (Wits):

The Wits midfielder has the ability to change the game with inspirational moments like this blistering goal from last season.

Keletso Sekhwela (UJ):

The Suzuki Golden Boot winner last season scoring the most goals in the tournament. If the UJ Orange Army are going to make the finals again this year he will no doubt feature heavily.

Jarome Jansen (UFS):

The defending champions will be captained by Jarome Jansen this season and will look to his leadership skills and vision if they are going to defend the title. He was nominated for the FNB Player of the Tournament last season so you can be sure he will be hungry to win it this year.

Lucky Raphala (TUT):

The versatile and dynamic no 10 was instrumental in the Red Army campaign last year taking them to the final. He previously played at the Vaal University of Technology and was their standout player in the 2024 season before move to TUT.

Samukelo Ngodela (Tuks):

The creative spark of the Stripe Generation front three who has scored numerous goals for Tuks over the past few seasons.

Relebohile Matima (UWC):

2024 champions UWC make their return to the tournament after missing out last season. Captain Relebohile Matima was a part of that title winning side and was a key player that saw the Cape side lift the trophy. He brings experience and a renewed hunger so keep an eye on him to feature heavily.

Phiwayinkosi Mchunu (DUT):

 Rasta has been a fan-favourite in the eyes of DUT fans but has also become a crucial playmaker within the KZN based team so he will be crucial if they will want to make a bigger impression this season.

Phaswana Maano (UL):

Versatile defender who can play as a striker so look out for him to make a big impact as the Limpopo side return to the tournament.

Fixtures: HERE   

Tickets: HERE