Wits aiming for knockout spot in Varsity Football 2026

Wits head into the 2026 Varsity Football tournament with high hopes of securing a semi-final spot as the new season gets underway on 7 August. The Johannesburg outfit will be eager to make a strong start and mount a serious challenge for the title.

After falling short in last year's round-robin stage and navigating a challenging qualification campaign for 2026, Wits are determined to deliver a more consistent performance in their bid for a place in the semi-finals.

With the Educated Footballers facing ‘dark horses’ UWC up first, head coach Thanduxolo Zulu is optimistic on the upcoming season. However, he is keeping his cards close to his chest on how to tackle their first fixture.

“UWC is a team we were grouped with at USSA (University Sports South Africa), and it’s a team that we’re well aware of at an USSA level when we were playing in December. However, we know a lot of teams do change. We know there will be a couple changes in the team setup,” said Zulu.

“If their coach hasn’t changed, chances are their approach would be quite similar with a few differences here and there.”

There are several players returning from last season, including captain Kgwadi Molepo and goalkeeper Lwando Mvinjana. Zulu believes while these are players who bolster the team’s strength due to their experience, he was hesitant to single out players to look out for.

“I believe all the time that the star of the team is the team itself. So football relies on team cohesion and everyone pulling their weight,” he said.

“There are a couple of exciting new players who the fans will make their judgements on. Their work ethic and team dynamic is quite important for us, and we are hoping to have a positive tournament.”

Wits Men will begin their campaign with an away clash against UWC at UWC Stadium on 7 August, with kick-off scheduled for 18:30.

Wits Provisional Squad:

Reddel Precious Duh Ngulle, Lwando Mvinjana, Morena Ramashala, Simangaliso Dlamini, Kamogelo Monyetshwale, Obakeng Leping, Kaihil Cloete, Mpendulo Lubisi, Karabo Tsoane, Keabetswe Segaetsho, Junior Julu, Kgwadi Molepo, Tebogo Masemola, Tshimologo Mokae, Moloko Kgatla, Mosa Njemla, Thabo Mphaki, Zaahid Shabodein, Lebokane Hlase, Siphesihle Ntombela, Mxolisi Mthiya, Thato Putswane, Keenan Schofield, Moila Matswiki.

Fixtures: HERE   

Tickets: HERE  

By: Khomotso Makgabutlane