UNIVEN ready to make a strong debut in Varsity Football Women 2025

As newcomers to the Varsity Football Women's tournament, the University of Venda have set the bar high, showing clear intent to compete at the top level and make a strong statement in this year’s competition.

Head coach Mbuyelo Magoro says that although his team faced tough opponents while qualifying for this year’s campaign, he admits it was an exciting and rewarding experience for his girls.

“Qualifying for the Varsity Women’s Football was an incredible and thrilling experience for us. The journey was not easy, we had to face about five strong teams to secure our spot. That made the qualification even more special,” said Magoro.

“For us as UNIVEN Ladies FC, this is history in the making, because it’s the very first time the University of Venda will participate in Varsity Football. It’s a huge achievement not just for the team, but for the entire institution, as it marks our debut on a national stage.”

Magoro says their expectations are straightforward, they want to compete at a high level, prove that they are capable of holding their own against strong opponents, and at the same time gain valuable experience that will help us grow and improve as a team.

“This is our first time, so we see it as both a challenge and a learning opportunity. The strategy is to focus on teamwork, discipline, and making sure we compete in every single match with confidence,” he said.

“We know the road to qualification was not easy, so we are prepared to put in the same fight and use the tournament as a platform to grow stronger for future competitions.”

The Limpopo based side will be led by Kanganyiso Gracious, as their captain, Magoro says Gracious was selected because of her strong leadership qualities, both on and off the pitch.

“She’s reliable in defense, committed to the team, and has shown that she can inspire her teammates to give their best. She’s truly the piece of the puzzle that holds our backline together, and we trust her to lead us through this debut season,” he adds.

“We have a good mix of both experienced players and exciting talent. A key player is “Remember Khumbula Radu”, our defensive midfielder. She has been with the team for close to three years, has excellent football IQ, and is extremely versatile - she can play across almost every position on the field."

“Another standout is “Dabana Andani Nichole”, our winger, who is quick, creative, and has the ability to deliver goals in crucial moments.”

UNIVEN Provisional Squad

Nthabiseng Makofane, Ayanda Mashilo Mabapa, Nsovo Ngobeni, Gracious Kanganiso, Advice Mohlala, Thubelihle Hlobsile Mbokazi, Rinee Shellot Nemukula, Mpho Pandelani, Thabelo Mudau, Lebogang Phillipine Marakalla, Boitumelo Mahlake, Pulane Millicent Madire, Mulalo Takalani Elisa Mudau, Khumbula Remember Radu, Katekani Shalyn Baloyi, Sara Ramphabana, Mankgopo Nelly Phoshoko, Nokuthula Kearabetswe Mnyakeni, Andani Nichole Dabana, Wam Hope Rikhotso, Mphiriseni Onicca Netshitavhe, Thandululo Remember Tshibasani, Nyeleti Pascalin Mathebula, Matete Mante Makena. 

Fixtures: HERE

Tickets: HERE