UJ targets Varsity Football Women's glory in celebration of 20th anniversary

The stage is set for a thrilling showdown as the UJ Orange Army prepares to face defending champions UWC in the Varsity Women’s Football 2025 final. For UJ, winning isn't just about taking home the trophy but it's about delivering a special gift for the university's 20^th anniversary.

"Bringing the trophy home would be a perfect gift for the university," said coach Nthabeleng Modiko.

"We know how formidable UWC is, and we don't take them lightly. We're calling on all our supporters from UJ's four campuses to come out in full force and help us get this win.

"We've been preparing for this moment since our loss in the 2024 semi-final. We've analysed our mistakes and have been working tirelessly to ensure that we are ready for this moment."

After winning the title in 2022, they fell short in the 2023 final against UWC. This time, they are determined to reclaim their spot at the top. The team’s run to the final has been particularly impressive, as they haven’t conceded a single goal.

Captain Sthembile Sandleni, a veteran of the 2022 championship team, is confident in her squad’s ability.

"We need to approach this final with the same energy and focus we've had throughout the tournament," she said.

"Our main goal is to score goals and win the match at full-time and avoiding a penalty shootout. I had the privilege to lift the trophy in my first year at UJ and it would be great to assist the current first year student-athletes to also enjoy the feeling of being a champion.”

The Orange Army has risen through the ranks with an impressive trajectory, capturing the second Varsity Football title on their home turf in 2022.

“It would be great to see Thato [Mofolo], walk away with the golden boot award at the end of the tournament,” said Sandleni.

“I’m excited that we have reached the 2025 final without conceding a single goal. We worked hard to get this far. It was heartbreaking for everyone in 2024 for starting very well in the round-robin stage and crashed out in the semifinal against TUT. So, I’m very proud and we want to win it for our university’s 20^th birthday celebrations.”

Fixtures: HERE  

Tickets: HERE.

By: Collen Maepa.