UFS are the Varsity Football 2025 champions after edging out TUT 5-4 on penalties on Thursday evening. The thrilling final at Shimla Park in Bloemfontein ended in a goalless draw after the regulation 90 minutes and thus forced the champions to be decided by a shootout. Remarkably, the final went to a penalty shootout for the third year in a row. But for UFS, this victory was historic – the first time they’ve lifted the trophy and been able to call themselves champions. The first half in the City of Roses was played at a frenetic pace, with both teams eager to make an early statement and pile on the pressure. The hosts, appearing in just their second-ever final, had the first real chance when in-form Jermone Jansen’s effort flew narrowly wide. It was end-to-end football as both sides searched for the breakthrough. But the 25th minute proved pivotal when inspirational UFS captain Iviwe Dyabuza and TUT’s star player Lucky Raphala collided heavily in midfield. The nasty clash forced both inspirational figures off for the rest of the match. With neither side able to find the opener, the teams went into the break locked at 0-0. In the second half, UFS launched wave after wave of attack, but the Red Army’s defence stood firm. Despite their dominance, the Kovsies simply couldn’t find a way through, and the match remained deadlocked – sending the final to penalties. The defining moment of the shootout came with TUT’s third spot-kick, when Lehlomo Tolo blasted his attempt over the crossbar. UFS kept their composure, though there was a moment of confusion when the crowd celebrated too early, mistakenly thinking Kediwe Ncenya had missed his effort. In the end, it was substitute Theko Phinithi – who had replaced the injured Dyabuza – who slotted home the decisive penalty to seal a famous 5-4 victory for the home side.   Penalty scorers:   UFS: Jose Mondi, Omphemetse Athibeng, Jerome Jansen, Ben Kraai, Theko Phinithi   TUT: Alan Moja, Surprise Khoza, Katlego Motlhale, Kediwe Ncenya. FNB Player of the Match: Surprise Xhosa (TUT) Suzuki Golden Boot winner: Keletso Sekhwela (UJ) Cashbuild Golden Glove: Ethan Mokwena (NWU) FNB Player of the Tournament: Aphelele Sibisi (NWU)   TEAMS:   UFS: Lethokuhle Makhaya, Ben Kraai, Philani Zondi, Xolani Mqwathi, Iviwe Dyabuza (captain), Tshepo Ndlovu, Jarome Jansen, Jose Mondi, Omphemetse Athibeng, Kagiso Semenya, Kagisho Lekholoa, Adolph Radingoana. TUT: Luyanda Mandindi, Lehlomo Tolo, Kediwe Ncenya, Surprise Khoza, Alan Moja (captain), Sphesihle Mazibuko, Katlego Motlhale, Menzukuthula Ntshangase, Lucky Raphala, Lindokuhle Nyandeni, Precious Mohale.

UPDATE: Voting for the FNB Player of the Tournament has closed as of 9am on 1 October. Winner will be announced after the final on Thursday 2 October. The 2025 Varsity Football season has been nothing short of dramatic with last-minute winners and top quality diski that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Now after weeks of intensity all eyes turn to the final where UFS and TUT will battle it out on Thursday, 2 October at Shimla Park in Bloemfontein where a new champion will be crowned. But before we discover who lifts the trophy, it’s time to celebrate the stars who have stood out across the competition. Fans now have the chance to vote for the FNB Player of the Tournament 2025 with the winner taking home a big cash prize from FNB and driving away in a Hertz-sponsored car for a year.  How the nominees were chosen 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: UPDATE: Voting for the FNB Player of the Tournament has closed as of 9am on 1 October. Winner will be announced after the final on Thursday 2 October. Now it’s over to the public. Your votes will decide who earns the title of Varsity Football’s top performer for 2025. The public can cast their votes until Wednesday, 1 October at 9am. The winner will be the player with the most votes at the deadline and will be announced after the final on Thursday 29 October. Vote for your winner below. UPDATE: Voting for the FNB Player of the Tournament has closed as of 9am on 1 October. Winner will be announced after the final on Thursday 2 October. Omphemetse Athibeng (UFS): A stalwart of the Kovsies side Omphemetse is definitely a player to keep an eye on. An unassuming figure on the field until he touches the ball and his talent becomes apparent. He has speed, he has skill, power, and the finesse of a quality player. His cracking goal was the difference against DUT and he was rightly named as the FNB Player of the Match.    Aphelele Sibisi (NWU): The Eagles captain had a brilliant season and picked up several FNB Player of the Match award. As a leader, Sibisi is known not only for his defensive skills but also for lifting the team’s morale. His teammates often rely on his drive to keep them motivated during tough phases of a match. “I have a personal need to show how far I can go, that starts with giving everything for this team.” Jarome Jansen (UFS): The UFS star has played an instrumental role in helping the Kovsies securing their first ever Varsity Football final. His skill is undeniable and the Bachelor of Administration student has been playing football since childhood, excelling in attacking roles. Inspired by Themba Zwane’s humility, he dreams of turning professional while balancing his studies. The final takes place on Thursday the 2 October.

UFS Football is buzzing ahead of the Varsity Football final on Thursday night. Not only are they playing in the championship match, but they will also host four-time champions TUT Football at Shimla Park and have the opportunity to lift the trophy for the first time in their history in front of their home crowd. The Kovsies booked their ticket to the final after beating NWU on penalties in the semi-final away in Mahikeng. Just two weeks ago, UFS lost 2-1 to TUT in a game they felt was decided by an unlucky penalty. Despite that, coach Mokete Tsotetsi believes his young squad has the resilience to shine under pressure, and this is their moment, one they have worked hard for throughout the campaign. “This one is going to be an interesting and challenging game,” said the former Jomo Cosmos and Bloemfontein Celtic player. “We’re up against a team that knows how to win Varsity Football, and we saw that just two weeks ago when they took all the points. But this is a new game and a new hurdle - a moment where all the hard work and challenges of the season will be tested. “We’ve had to fight to understand one another, to buy into the philosophy, and to believe in what each player is capable of. Even though we have one of the youngest squads, the boys have shown real resilience and growth. We’ve already proven, with God’s grace and hard work, that we can overcome - like when we went to NWU, faced our fears, and came back with a dramatic win in the penalty shootout." “Luck only follows those who put in the effort, and the players now see and believe they have a real chance to bring silverware to this institution. We know it won’t be easy, but we’ll put our hearts into it and give everything to clear this last hurdle. Our goal is to finish the way we started - strong and hopefully bring the trophy home.” UFS captain and left-back Iviwe Dyabuza echoed his coach’s sentiments, saying the team has grown through this daunting journey in 2025 and now genuinely believes they are contenders for silverware. “We’re very excited and motivated for the upcoming game,” said the inspirational captain. “There’s a lot we want to show and a lot to offer on the day, and our focus is fully on that." “It wasn’t a hurdle for us when Coach Mokete came in - in fact, we were fortunate to have him. He brought new and exciting ideas, and it wasn’t difficult to adapt because we were learning something fresh almost every day." “His philosophy wasn’t much different from what we were already used to, which made the transition smooth. The players welcomed him, there were no clashes, and everyone was willing to listen and work with him throughout the tournament. It’s been a positive journey, and now we’re ready to take the next step.” Thursday’s historic final at Shimla Park in Bloemfontein kicks off at 19:00.   Fixtures:  HERE    Tickets:  HERE.

After eight rounds of thrilling football and plenty of drama, only two giants remain standing, set to face each other for the coveted Varsity Football trophy. TUT will travel to the City of Roses with ambitions of claiming a fifth Varsity Football title, eager to add another chapter to their storied history. The Red Army will clash with UFS Football contesting to embed a record fifth star on their jerseys. Coming into this battle having recorded four wins and two draws on their way to the final the Pretoria based side thumped UJ 1-0 in the semifinal to pave their way into the championship deciding match. Captain Alan Moja believes his team is high in confidence as they have won it four times already and know how to win it. “I am very confident in winning the fifth star, because we done it before. This is our year, we know the feeling of playing the final and we will do everything to prove that as we done it before. We were somewhat written off so right now is our chance to reclaim our title. This title belongs to TUT and no other institutions,” said Moja. “I believe teamwork, hard work and the motivations we depend on those so that we can be remembered in the history of Varsity Football. Working together will help us win the title. All the instructions and encouragements we will give each other will play a huge part.” In the final match of the round-robin stage, TUT defeated UFS to secure their place in the semifinals, setting up a high-stakes rematch between the two powerhouses when it matters most. Moja emphasized that his team has been focused primarily on achieving results, keeping their eyes firmly on the goal rather than distractions along the way. “When it comes to the final it's about the results, we will carry the memories and experiences we shared this campaign,” he said. “Some players really needed this experience so that we see where we lack. The most important thing is about results and teamwork and how we motivate each other on and off the field but at the end of the day is about the results.”   Fixtures:  HERE    Tickets:  HERE   By: Lehlogonolo Ditshego

2012 Varsity Beach Volleyball: UWC won overall (UWC vs UJ final in Plettenberg Bay rained out, UWC beat UJ 38-22 in Margate) Varsity 7s Rugby: Maties won overall (Maties beat NWU 29-24 in sudden-death extra-time in Plettenberg Bay, Kovsies beat Maties 31-17 in Margate) 2013 Varsity Athletics: Tuks overall (Tuks won Stellenbosch, Johannesburg and Pretoria meetings) Varsity Hockey: Maties (women beat NWU 1-0) Varsity Women’s Football: UJ (beat TUT 6-0) Varsity Football: UP-Tuks (beat NMMU 4-1) Varsity Netball: Kovsies (beat NWU 44-40) Varsity Beach Volleyball: UWC (beat UJ 37-36) Varsity 7s Rugby: Maties (beat Kovsies 22-17 – in sudden-death extra-time) 2014 Varsity Athletics: Tuks overall (Tuks won Port Elizabeth, Johannesburg, Stellenbosch and Pretoria meetings) Varsity Hockey: UJ men (beat Maties 2-0 in shootout after 2-2 full-time) Varsity Women’s Football: TUT (beat UP-Tuks 5-0) Varsity Football: UP-Tuks (beat UJ 1-0) Varsity Netball: Kovsies (beat Tuks 49-42) 2015 Varsity Cricket: Tuks (beat Maties) Varsity Athletics: Tuks and NWU share overall (Tuks won Potchefstroom meeting, NWU won Stellenbosch meeting) Varsity Hockey: UJ women (beat Kovsies 3-0) Varsity Beach Volleyball: UWC (beat Tuks 44-25) Varsity 7s Rugby: Kovsies (beat Tuks 24-19) Varsity Women’s Football: TUT (beat UWC 2-1) Varsity Football: UWC (beat TUT 2-1) Varsity Netball: NWU (beat Maties 50-37) 2016 Varsity Cricket: Tuks (beat UWC) Varsity Athletics: UJ overall (Tuks won Johannesburg meeting, UJ won Stellenbosch meeting) Varsity Hockey: UJ men (beat Tuks 4-2) Varsity 7s Rugby: Maties (beat UWC 19-5) Varsity Beach Volleyball: UWC (beat Tuks 33-29) Varsity Women’s Football: TUT (beat UWC 1-0) Varsity Football: TUT (beat UJ 2-1) Varsity Netball: NWU (beat Tuks 56-55) Varsity MTB: Maties (men), Maties (women) 2017 Varsity Cricket: NWU (beat Tuks) Varsity Athletics: Tuks overall (Tuks won Potchefstroom and Pretoria meetings) Varsity Hockey: Tuks women (beat Maties 1-0) Varsity Women’s Football: TUT (beat UJ 4-0) Varsity Football: UP-Tuks (beat TUT 2-0) Varsity Netball: Tuks (beat NWU 43-41) Varsity MTB: UCT (men), Maties (women) Varsity Beach Volleyball: Tuks (beat UJ 52-20) Varsity 7s Rugby: UJ (beat Kovsies 32-5) 2018 Varsity Cricket: Tuks (beat NWU) Varsity Athletics: Tuks overall (Tuks won the first Pretoria meeting, NWU won the second) Varsity Hockey: Tuks men (beat Maties 5-0) Varsity Women’s Football: TUT (beat UWC 2-1) Varsity Football: TUT (beat Wits 2-1) Varsity 7s Rugby: Tuks (beat UJ 19-14) Varsity Basketball: Wits (beat UCT 78-55) Varsity Netball: Kovsies (beat Tuks 63-59) 2019 Varsity Athletics: NWU overall (NWU won Stellenbosch and Potchefstroom meeting) Varsity Hockey: NWU women (beat Maties 2-1 in shootout after 0-0 full-time) Varsity Women’s Football: TUT (beat UWC 4-1 in shootout after 1-1 full-time) Varsity Football: NWU (beat TUT 1-0) Varsity Cricket: Tuks (beat UJ) Varsity 7s Rugby: Tuks (women – beat UFH 46-0), UJ (men – beat Maties 20-0) Varsity Netball: Tuks (beat Maties 48-43) Varsity Basketball: VUT (women – beat NWU 1-0 in shootout after 58-58 full-time), UJ (men – beat Tuks 64-57) Varsity MTB: UCT (men), UCT (women) 2020 Tournaments supsended due to COVID 2021 Varsity Football: UJ (beat UFS 4-1) Varsity Netball: UFS (beat Maties 55-39 ) Varsity Women's Football: UWC (beat Tuks in shootout) 2022 Varsity Football: TUT (beat UJ 2-1) Varsity Netball: Maties (beat NWU 68-55 ) Varsity Women's Football: UJ (beat UWC 5-3 in shootout after 0-0 full time) Varsity Cricket: Maties (beat NWU by 5 wickets) Varsity Hockey Men: Tuks (beat Wits 4-3) Varsity Hockey Women:Tuks (beat Maties 4-3) 2023 Varsity Football: TUT (beat UJ 5-4 on penalties after 1-1 full time) Varsity Netball: UP-Tuks (beat UJ 63-61) Women's Varsity Football: UWC (beat UJ 2-0) 2024 Varsity Football: UWC (beat NWU 8-7 on penalties after 1-1 full time) Women's Varsity Football: UWC (beat TUT 2-1) Varsity Netball: UFS (beat UJ 58-55) TITLES BY UNIVERSITY 21 – University of Pretoria (Athletics 5 – 1 shared, Football 3, Cricket 4, Hockey 4 – 2 women, Netball 2, Beach Volleyball 1, 7s Rugby 2 – 1 men) 10 - University of Johannesburg (Women’s Football 2, Mens football 1, Hockey 3 – 2 men, Athletics 1, 7s Rugby 2 – men, Basketball 1 – men) 10 – Tshwane University of Technology (Women’s Football 6, Football 4) 9 – Stellenbosch University (7s Rugby 3, Hockey 1 – women, MTB 3 – 2 women, Netball 1, Cricket 1) 8 – University of the Western Cape (Beach Volleyball 4, Mens football 1, Womens football 3,) 7 – North-West University (Netball 2, Athletics 2 – 1 shared, Cricket 1, Hockey 1, Football 1) 6 – University of the Free State (Netball 5, 7s Rugby 1) 3 – University of Cape Town (MTB 3 – 2 men) 1 – Wits University (Basketball 1 – men) 1 – Vaal University of Technology (Basketball 1 – women)

The Varsity Football 2025 semi-finals delivered drama and intensity on Thursday night, with both matches producing memorable results. At the UJ Soweto Stadium, TUT secured their place in the final after edging past UJ 1-0 in a tightly contested Gauteng derby. Meanwhile, at the NWU Mafikeng Stadium, UFS had to dig deep to earn their spot in the championship match, showing great composure as they triumphed 4-3 in a nail-biting penalty shootout against NWU.   Here are the players who made the biggest impact in their respective matches. Aphelele Sibisi (NWU)   In the semi-final clash between NWU and UFS, captain Aphelele Sibisi delivered another standout performance at right back. His defensive awareness was key in disrupting UFS attacks, with well-timed tackles and composed decision-making under pressure. Beyond his defensive duties, Sibisi added value in attack with overlapping runs and precise passes that helped stretch the opposition’s backline. Leading by example, he combined discipline with attacking intent, making him a pivotal presence for NWU throughout the match.   Lucky Raphala (TUT Football)   Lucky Raphala played an impressive role in leading TUT to the final. He was the playmaker for the Pretoria side, winning the majority of the free kicks in front of the UJ box. Though he was not on the scoresheet, he did well to give TUT the forward movements, thus earning the FNB Player of the Match award.   Kyle Van Rensburg (UJ Football)   UJ goalkeeper Kyle Van Rensburg played a crucial role to keep UJ in the game though conceding a single goal in the second half. He mace crucial saves to prevent TUT from scoring several goals. His efforts in goal put him in line as a contender for the Cashbuild Golden Glove award, having conceded just three goals in seven matches.   Fixtures:  HERE    Tickets:  HERE.

The Varsity Netball 2025 final at the Callie Human Hall in Bloemfontein delivered every ounce of drama fans could have hoped for. In front of a buzzing crowd, NWU overturned the odds to defeat defending champions UFS Kovsies 57–49.   It is the Eagles’ third Varsity Netball title, and their first since 2016. The last time they played in a final was in 2022 when they were beaten by Maties.   After the singing of the national anthem, the first quarter got underway with NWU striking first to put points on the board, while Kovsies took time to find their rhythm. That shifted when Liame de Lange intercepted a crucial NWU pass, allowing Kovsies to level the score moments later. The home side then pulled ahead, but NWU responded smartly by slowing down the tempo and executing precise passes to close the gap. Both teams made scoring difficult with strong defensive work and sharp attacking play, trading goals in a tightly contested opening period. Kovsies held a narrow 13–12 lead at the end of the first quarter.   In the second quarter, Kovsies realised that simply matching NWU goal for goal wouldn’t be enough. The defending champions attempted longer, riskier passes but their accuracy began to falter. Eagles defenders Jessica Matjiu and Martine Jordaan worked tirelessly to curb Mari du Raan’s goal-scoring rhythm. As a result, both sides only managed to double their tallies. At halftime, Kovsies maintained a narrow 26–24 lead.   The penultimate 15 minutes saw the Eagles’ Sunel Smit make full use of her height advantage to keep the scoreboard ticking. In midfield, Tandolwetho Mokoena disrupted several NWU attacking plays at crucial moments, lifting the home crowd, who cheered loudly with every Kovsies goal. With both teams still holding back their power plays, the stage was set for a tense final quarter. While Kovsies maintained their consistent strike rate of 13 goals per quarter, NWU slipped further behind, managing only 10 in the period and the scoreboard read 39–34.   In the final quarter, Du Raan and Xandri Fourie combined to dominate the Kovsies’ attacking circle, keeping their team in contention. After the first power play, the scores were level with six minutes remaining, setting up a thrilling finish. But as soon as NWU edged ahead, the Kovsies supporters were silenced for the first time all evening. During the second power play, Kovsies appeared deflated as NWU piled on unanswered goals, surging to a substantial lead. They sealed the victory with a final score of 57-49.     Quarter scores:  13-12 | 26-24 | 39-34 | 49-57 FNB Player of the Match:  Sunel Smith (NWU) FNB Player of the Tournament:  Reratilwe Letsoalo (UFS Kovsies) Suzuki Players’ Player of the Tournament: Cornelia Mupenda (UJ)   UFS Kovsies:  Liame de Lange, Reratilwe Letsoalo, Elene Vosloo, Xandri Fourie, Charne van Vuuren, Chanique Eyberg, Mari du Raan, Thando Mokoena, Leane Otto, Megan Erasmus, Siyamthandanda Sambo, Mienke Delport.   NWU:  Sunel Smit, Jaime Matfield, Andrya Joubert, Jessica Matjiu,  Johanné Meyer, Amori Matthee, Christi-Mari Coetzee, Vivian Venancio, Jade Egwatu, Liane van Lochem, Casey Davids, Johanne Meyer, Martiné Jordaan.   Results and news HERE .

The stage is set and for UFS Kovsies it is as big as it gets – the Callie Human Hall in Bloemfontein on Monday 29 September (19:00) when they take on NWU in the final of Varsity Netball 2025. And the players and coaches of the defending champions say they are ready.   Assistant coach and Protea star Karla Pretorius believes consistency will be key.   “We plan to focus on our game plan and execute it as consistently as possible. The fact that we were successful in a tough semi-final (against Maties, 46-35) give us confidence, and a home crowd feels like having an eighth player on court.”   Kovsies will need everything on their side to stop NWU, who swept aside UJ 58–28 in their semi-final. A record five titles and the advantage of yet another home final in a packed Callie Human Hall however count in their favour.   Kovsies’ only defeat this year was in the first bumper weekend, against UJ (50-53), something that goal shooter Mari du Raan acknowledges count in their favour.   “We’ve had a really good tournament, one of the few teams to stay consistent throughout, and that’s been a building block for us. Every moment at Callie Human is special, but when we won the semi-final and I saw what it meant to every player, that was unforgettable. Now we’re mentally ready for NWU’s defence, and we’ll make sure every shot sinks.”   Defensive star Liame de Lange, who has collected multiple player of the match awards, says the team’s growth has been “impeccable” over the season.   “The fourth quarter of the semi-final was huge for us, we tightened our defence and stayed composed under pressure. That composure will be vital on Monday against NWU. We want to disrupt their flow defensively and stay calm on attack. Most importantly, we trust in God for strength to play with our hearts.” Get tickets to the final HERE .   by Jürgen Smith

As the curtain comes down on Varsity Netball 2025, the NWU Eagles are ready to leave everything on court as they take on defending champions UFS Kovsies in the final on Monday 29 September (19:00) at the Callie Human Hall in Bloemfontein.   The final offers the Eagles an opportunity to avenge their 59-83 defeat to Kovsies in round five, a result that has fuelled their determination and sharpened their focus, says captain Martine Jordaan.   “That match was a wake-up call for us. We know exactly where we fell short, and this time we are determined to execute our plan and show how much we have grown since then.”   Reflecting on the season, Jordaan said the team’s growth, both individually and collectively, has been central to their success.   “We have grown so much as individuals and as a team since the beginning of the tournament. There have been some tough moments, but we kept our spirits high and focused on our goals. The semi-final (against UJ) has been a stand-out for me in the way the team played and just the fun we had on court.”   Looking ahead to Monday night’s final against the five time champions, Jordaan emphasized that NWU’s focus remains on perfecting their own performance rather than being distracted by the opposition.   “We are focusing on the things we can control and really trying to approach it as we would any other game. Our approach is to sharpen up our own game and try to produce a finals-worthy performance.”   The final also marks an emotional milestone for Jordaan, who has captained the team through a season marked by determination and progress.   “This has been such a season of growth for both me and the NWU Eagles. I don’t know how to put into words what this team has done for me and the journey we have been on this season. It has truly been a special and memorable season. To lift the trophy on Monday night would mean the world to us after nearly 10 years,” Jordaan said. Get tickets HERE .   by Phenyo Mokgothu

UPDATE: Voting for the FNB Player of the Tournament has closed as of 9am on 26 September. Winner will be announced after the final on Monday 29 September. The stage is set for the 2025 Varsity Netball final on Monday, 29 September as UFS and NWU will go head-to-head at the Callie Human Hall in Bloemfontein. While the spotlight will be on which team secures the championship trophy, it’s now time to honour the standout stars of the season and for the public to have their say in deciding who deserves the title of FNB Player of the Tournament with the winner walking away with a cash prize from FNB and a Hertz-sponsored vehicle for a year! How the nominees were chosen The head coaches from all eight participating universities each nominated three players who impressed them most throughout the tournament. Coaches were not allowed to put forward players from their own squad. Votes were weighted: 1st place = 3 points, 2nd place = 2 points, 3rd place = 1 point. The three players with the highest overall scores are now up for the public vote. Your vote will decide who claims this prestigious award. Here are the nominees for 2025 as chosen by the coaches:   The public can cast their votes until Friday, 26 September at 9am. The winner will be the player with the most votes at the deadline and will be announced after the final on Monday 29 September. Vote for your winner below. UPDATE: Voting for the FNB Player of the Tournament has closed as of 9am on 26 September. Winner will be announced after the final on Monday 29 September. Reratilwe Letsoalo (UFS) Captain of the defending champions and lead her team into the final once again where she will no doubt play an instrumental role if the Kovsies are going to lift the trophy once again. Her goal from the start was about more than just winning. She points to the team’s new motto for 2025 - All minus one is equal to nothing.  “If we’re not all in this together, we won’t achieve what we want to achieve. Despite wanting to win and defend our title, our main goal this season is to be consistent, not just one player standing out, but consistent as a team from the first game through to the playoffs.” Cornelia Mupenda   – UJ UJ’s last line of defence had an incredible season taking the Orange Army to the semi-finals with confidence. The Namibian international continues to thrive on the domestic and international stage. She joined the Singapore Super League earlier this year and won the TNL 2025 with the Golden Fireballs. She picked up numerous FNB Player of the Match awards during the tournament. Christi-Mari Coetzee - NWU Christi-Mari Coetzee quickly established herself as a player to watch in Varsity Netball 2025. Making an immediate impact with a player of the match award on her debut against Varsity College and earning national junior call-ups, she is building a reputation as one of South Africa’s emerging netball talents. She has been a cornerstone of the Eagles success and with no less than 4 FNB Player of the Match performance she is no doubt one for the future. The final takes place this coming Monday and you can get tickets HERE .

TUT secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over UJ in a tense Varsity Football semi-final, booking their place in the final. Meanwhile UFS advanced after holding their nerve in a dramatic penalty shootout, edging NWU 4-3 to seal their spot in the championship clash.   UJ 0-1 TUT In a nail-biting Varsity Football semi-final showdown, TUT Football secured their spot in the final with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over hosts UJ Football. The match, played at a hushed UJ Soweto Stadium, was a tense tactical battle that came down to a single moment of brilliance. The opening half was a cagey affair, with both teams prioritizing defence. TUT controlled possession, pushing UJ deep into their own territory, but neither side managed to create a clear-cut opportunity. The most notable action came in the 6 th minute when UJ's goalkeeper, Kyle Van Rensburg, was forced to make a save from a long-range shot. The teams went into halftime deadlocked at 0-0. After the break, the intensity ramped up significantly. The physical game led to a flurry of yellow cards, and the momentum shifted decisively in the 69 th  minute. UJ's Yasidu Lifa received his second yellow card, earning him a red card and an early exit. This left the home team to play the remainder of the match with just ten men, giving TUT the confidence to press their advantage. The decisive moment came shortly after. TUT's Lehlomo Tolo delivered the winning blow with a stunning strike, finding the back of the net and putting his team up 1-0. Having a man and a goal advantage, TUT continued to attack, but the score remained 1-0 at the final whistle. This win was sweet revenge for TUT, who had been defeated 1-0 by UJ in a previous match in Round 6 during the round-robin stage. After finishing the season at the top of the table with five wins and two draws, TUT's victory eliminated UJ from the title race and earned them a well-deserved place in the final.   SCORERS:   TUT: Lehlomo Tolo.                                                                         Player of the Match:  Lucky Raphala (TUT)   TEAMS:   UJ:  Kyle Van Rensburg, Ndabezinhle Nkosi, Sinenhlanhla Mkhonza, Tumelo Machete, Tumelo Machete, Karabo Modisane, Ngwako Ramaloko, Yasidu Lifa, Tokoloho Vilakazi, Thabo Moshikere, Tshepo Mosieleng, Keletso Sekhwela. TUT: Luyanda Mandindi, Lehlomo Tolo, Mekdiwe Ncenya, Surprise Khoza, Alan Moja, Sphesihle Mazibuko, Katlego Motlhale, Menzukuthula Ntshangase, Lucky Raphala, Lindokuhle Nyandeni, Precious Mohale.   NWU 0 (3) - 0 (4) UFS NWU Football suffered a heartbreaking exit from the Varsity Football 2025 semi-finals after falling 4-3 to UFS Football in a tense penalty shootout at NWU Mafikeng Stadium on Thursday night. The much-anticipated clash lived up to expectations, with both teams displaying tactical discipline and determination from the opening whistle. NWU took the early initiative, controlling possession and registering two shots on target in the opening 20 minutes, while UFS managed one attempt as they looked to settle into the game. Despite NWU’s dominance in the first half, creating several promising chances and keeping UFS under pressure, neither side could find a breakthrough before the interval. The second half followed a similar pattern, with NWU continuing to push forward in search of a decisive goal. The best chance of the match arrived in the final minute of regulation time when NWU were awarded a penalty. However, the opportunity slipped away when Momelezi Mngati failed to convert, leaving the score at 0-0 after 90 minutes and forcing the match into a penalty shootout. In the shootout, both teams held their nerve initially, but two missed penalties from NWU proved costly. UFS capitalised on their chances, converting four of their spot-kicks to seal a 4-3 victory and book their place in the Varsity Football final. It was a bitter end to an otherwise dominant performance from NWU, who controlled much of the match but could not translate their superiority into goals. The result means their 2025 Varsity Football journey comes to an end, while UFS advances with momentum into the championship decider.   Player of the match: Lethokuhle Makhaya (UFS)   TEAMS:   NWU:  Ethan Mokwena, Lucky Letwaba, Lucas Seromo, Aphelele Wandile Sibisi, Knowledge Muleya, Thabang Majoro, Thapelo Letsholonyane, Reatlegile Kgosithebe, Momelezi Mngati, Bokamoso Ramoshoane, Khumoetsile Van Schalkwyk. UFS: Lethokuhle Makhaya, Ben Kraai, Philani Zondi, Xolani Mqwathi, Iviwe Dyabuza, Tshepo Ndlovu, Jose Mondi, Jarome Jansen, Omphemetse Matlhogonolo Athibeng, Kagisho Lekholoa, Adolph Radingoana.   HIGHLIGHTS: Fixtures:  HERE    Tickets:  HERE.

UFS Football are confident that they can book their place in the final of the Varsity Football 2025 competition on Thursday night, and they are more than prepared to fight tooth and nail to make it happen. Last week, the Blues missed out on a home semi-final when they went down 2-1 to the Tshwane University of Technology. While they are still in the playoffs, their path has become tougher as they now have to travel to Mahikeng to face NWU Football, a side they managed to beat 1-0 earlier in the campaign. One thing UFS have shown this season is their willingness to got to the trenches for each other. That fighting spirit and character has seen them punch well above their weight throughout the competition. Although the loss to TUT was a setback, captain Iviwe Dyabuza admitted his side didn’t show enough character in that match but believes it’s something they can put right. “I think one of the biggest factors in our loss last week was that we failed to show character during the game. That’s something we hold very close to our hearts to always display character. It was a problem for us, but it’s something we can fix as a team going into this game,” Dyabuza said. The speedy left-back also cautioned that NWU will be no pushovers in Mahikeng, but they will be prepared for what is to come. “Going to Mahikeng, we’re expecting a physical game, a game that will be fast and intense. But we’re preparing ourselves for anything that might come our way. We were there last season and it didn’t end well, so we know what to expect. “By God’s grace, we’re hoping for a positive result. Winning would mean a lot because it would be the first time our team reaches a Varsity Football final. “We’re approaching this game like a final because we want to get ourselves into the championship match to show what we can really do.” Thursday night’s semi-final between NWU-Mahikeng and UFS kicks off at 19:15.   Fixtures:  HERE    Tickets:  HERE.