UJ have sights firmly set on lifting Varsity Football Women 2026 trophy

The University of Johannesburg head into the 2026 Varsity Football Women carrying the weight of expectation after falling agonisingly short of the title in the previous edition.

Following a runners-up finish, the Orange Army are determined to go one step further this season, with their sights firmly set on ending a five-year wait for Varsity Football glory and bringing the coveted trophy back to Johannesburg.

For coach Nthabeleng “Dunga” Modiko and her squad, the sting of last year's final against the UWC Womens remains fresh, serving as powerful motivation rather than a distraction.

“We are proud of the history we have built in this competition, but our focus is firmly on the opportunity ahead,” says Modiko.

“This group has worked exceptionally hard and is determined to represent the University of Johannesburg with pride, passion, and excellence.”

UJ’s path through the 2025 campaign was nothing short of dominance until the final whistle. The team performed exceptionally well, scoring 13 goals across four matches without conceding a single goal prior to the final.

They opened their campaign with a 4-0 win over the North-West University, followed by a 2-0 victory against Wits University and another 4-0 win against Cape Peninsula University of Technology. In the semifinal, UJ clinched a 3-0 win against Gauteng rivals Tshwane University of Technology.

Despite their clinical performances, their campaign ended in heartbreak at a packed UJ Soweto Stadium, where they narrowly fell 1-0 to UWC. However, Modiko remains confident that her side has addressed those critical moments and is fully equipped to turn past shortcomings into 2026 victory.

To go one step further this season, the Orange Army will rely on a potent mix of proven match-winners and exciting new talent.

“Varsity Football is a valuable platform to showcase the quality of football at UJ and across South African universities. We look forward to seeing our supporters rally behind the Orange Army as we pursue our goal: bringing the trophy back to Johannesburg,” said Modiko.

UJ Women’s Football Provisional Squad:

Matshidiso Masebe, Unathi Mahlindza, Sindy Sebashe, Nokuthula Sekhukhuni, Angela Mtshweni, Ntsandeni Munasi, Thato Mokalake, Kutlwano Maphane, Anele Sosibo, Akia Pewah, Kabelo Mokoena, Itumeleng Maqeleqele, Sthembile Sandleni, Nhlakanipho Moyo, Sthembile Msomi, Amukelani Masonganyi, Sbongakonke Mzobe, Lindelwa Mabuza, Kamogelo Maponya, Ayanda Mnyembane, Rhulani Ndlovu, Malitsatsi Mosala, Kusaselihle Shibase, Mpho Dlamini.

Fixtures: HERE 

Tickets: HERE

By: Collen Maepa