Vote for the FNB Player of the Tournament in Varsity Football 2026

The 2026 Varsity Football season has delivered another action packed campaign bringing high-intensity football, dramatic moments and plenty of #iyachesa diski moments during the season. With the tournament heading towards the semi-finals and final we can't to see who will be crowned this year's champions.

But before we discover who lifts the trophy, it’s time to celebrate the stars who have stood out across the competition. The head coaches selected the players who they thought had the biggest impact and now the fans can have their say and vote for the FNB Player of the Tournament 2026, with the winner taking home a cash prize of R10 000 from FNB.

How the nominees were selected:

• Each of the eight head coaches across the competition nominated three players who impressed them the most.

• Coaches were not allowed to put forward players from their own squads.

• Nominations were weighted: 1st = 3 points, 2nd = 2 points, 3rd = 1 point.

• After tallying the totals, the three players with the highest scores made the final shortlist.

Here are the nominees for 2025 as chosen by the coaches:

The public can cast their votes until Friday, 2 October at 9am. The winner will be the player with the most votes at the deadline and will be announced after the final on the same day.

Vote for your winner below.

FNB Player of the Tournament 2026

• Matome Rangata (Tuks)
• Sinenhlanhla Mkhonza (UJ)
• Akani Rathokoa (TUT)

Matome Rangata (UP-Tuks)

Tuks explosive winger established himself as a threat and a player to watch whenever the Stripe Generation takes to field. Rangata was a thorn in the defence with deadly runs and cheeky feet on the left wing, eliminating players, creating chances and breaking defensive lines. He is always in the thick of things and a constant threat to opposition, displaying man of the match performances or scoring sensational free kicks.

Sinenhlanhla Mkhonza (UJ):

Sinenhlanhla Mkhonza stood out for UJ with a composed and influential performance in the heart of the Orange Army midfield. Operating as the pivot, Mkhonza plays a crucial role in breaking up the opposition’s attacks and disrupting their rhythm, while also showing quality in possession. His ability to win back the ball and quickly transition UJ into attack helps create important opportunities, making him a key figure in the team’s performance.

Akani Rathokoa:

TUT’s newly signed winger Akani Rathokoa is taking Varsity Football by storm as the record champions chase a historic fifth title. The exciting wide player has joined the Pretoria giants with his pace, flair and attacking threat expected to play a key role as TUT target another Varsity Football crown. Rathokoa was key to TUT attacking troops in all opening encounters, alluding the freedom given by the coaches to express himself.

Fixtures: HERE

Tickets: HERE