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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) 2025 Varsity Football: UFS (beat TUT 5-4 on penalties) Women's Varsity Football: UWC (beat UJ 1-0) Varsity Netball: NWU (beat UFS 57-49) 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) 9 – University of the Western Cape (Beach Volleyball 4, Mens football 1, Womens football 4,) 8 – North-West University (Netball 3, Athletics 2 – 1 shared, Cricket 1, Hockey 1, Football 1) 7 – University of the Free State (Netball 5, 7s Rugby 1, Men's football 1) 3 – University of Cape Town (MTB 3 – 2 men) 1 – Wits University (Basketball 1 – men) 1 – Vaal University of Technology (Basketball 1 – women)

Nicholas Stothard and UP-Tuks embark on another quest for silverware. The Pretoria outfit are gunning to end a nine-year drought having last won the coveted Varsity Football trophy in 2017. The Stripe Generation open their 2026 Varsity Football campaign with an away trip to Free State to take on defending champions UFS. With a new youthful squad after losing a group of senior players including long serving captain Edward Rankwe they will be led by newly appointed skipper Paballo Mamabolo. “Our preparations have gone smoothly, we had an eight-week preseason into this new season and the players are fit and strong. We did not make the semi-finals last year, we had too many draws, lost one only game and won two, we had a good squad but struggled to get over the line,” said Stothard. “We hoping things become different for us this season and have the cutting edge. We have a number of exciting players and a few seniors that left, Leathan Croats, Damian Overmeyer, our captain Edward Rankwe and striker Quinton Stokes-Waller but we have new exciting players in particular Sinalo Nyawose.” The former Tuks goalkeeper highlighted their readiness to go over the edge this season, to uphold the honour it comes with representing an institute with rich history. “We know the pressure it comes with it, not for football department but the university at large. We did well in our USSA competitions we hope to take that form into Varsity Football competition. Fans are thirsty for silverware but so are we as the staff,” he said. “We urge our fans to come in numbers and we will do it for them and deliver on each day.” UP-Tuks Provisional Squad: Koketso Mokou, Gennaro Johnson, Zakhele Shabangu, Mpho Letsapa, Cayden Sukraj, Valjean Malan, Khayelihle Ntuli, Nkosana Shabalala, DeShaun Jafta, Jason Cox, Paballo Mamabolo, Sibusiso Munyuku, Lebohang Mswane, Sibusiso Tolomane, Simphiwe Nkosi, Ahmad Karim, Simphiwe Nkosi, Omolemo Moabi, Tshiamo Masisi, Joshua Wood, Philisande Khuzwayo, Euan Jenneker, Moabelo Chuene, Raymond Matlamela, Samukelo Ngodela, Risen Albert, Phiwayinkhosi Dube, Matome Rangata, Edward kolokoto, Ethan Prins, Reitumetse Mothlasedi, Sinalo Nyawose, Ntokozo Madela, Mazithi Qasha, Sthembiso Mzila, Madoche Tamba, Kholofelo Masenamela. Fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE

TUT head coach and Varsity Football’s most decorated coach Bushy Moloi expects a dominant season and a lot more competitive tournament after the disappointment after losing last year's final to UFS on penalties. The Red Army will open their 2026 campaign against UJ the Orange Army for Gauteng bragging rights encounter. The record time champions are aiming to a fifth star, in a season that sees University of Limpopo (UL) making a return in the competition. Moloi alludes the competitiveness of the tournament and how they managed to stay afloat and cement their supremacy. “I have seen lots of universities going out and coming in and so we are not interested in any movements because we have not seen TUT missing out so far. TUT will remain the only army that has not tasted such and we remain humble of the process and progress of developing our players,” said Moloi. The Red Army will take on the Orange Army in a much-anticipated clash. Moloi establish that the tournament does not care of how you start but it is rather about how you finish. Moloi did not hold back talking about his troops’ readiness. “We have always maintained that we lead with pride and dignity hence the mood is balanced. As leaders we are finalizing ourselves and will be ready for Friday when we play the favourite team UJ,” he said. “Ninety percent of new players with lot of efforts from our technical team. We have lost senior players due to age limit. Now we have lots of young players to take us to the 5th star. It is good for the nation to see on the opening and as the last fixture for all to watch this Gauteng Giants game,” he adds. “Over the years it shows that it doesn't matter how u start but how u finish. For us it doesn't matter if we lose or win our first game. We go try again.” TUT Provisional Squad: Likho James, Matsobane Chipana, Luyanda Mandindi, Iviwe Sodidi, Moleleki Jacob Twala, Syabonga Vilakazi, Matome Sekgobela, Njabulo Mpisana, Bohlale Phatsisi, Onkgopotse Mohlamonyane, Thobani Ngwenya, Kearabilwe Mphahlele, Mahlatsi Baloyi, Thandolwethu Masondo, Appeal Mogakane, Menzukuthula Ntshangase, Ntshuxeko Mkhabela, Akani Rathokoa, Tshiamo Ranthoa, Dean Kruger, Khalefo Debeshe, Bandile Ndhlovu. Fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE

Every season, Varsity Football provides a stage for the country's most promising university footballers to showcase their talent in front of coaches, scouts and supporters. The competition has become a proven stepping stone to the professional game, with numerous former players going on to enjoy successful careers in South African football. With the 2026 tournament set to kick off on 7 August, another exciting generation of players will be ready to seize the opportunity. Here are the players we believe will make the biggest impact throughout the season. Tebogo Masemola (Wits): The Wits midfielder has the ability to change the game with inspirational moments like this blistering goal from last season. Keletso Sekhwela (UJ): The Suzuki Golden Boot winner last season scoring the most goals in the tournament. If the UJ Orange Army are going to make the finals again this year he will no doubt feature heavily. Jarome Jansen (UFS): The defending champions will be captained by Jarome Jansen this season and will look to his leadership skills and vision if they are going to defend the title. He was nominated for the FNB Player of the Tournament last season so you can be sure he will be hungry to win it this year. Lucky Raphala (TUT): The versatile and dynamic no 10 was instrumental in the Red Army campaign last year taking them to the final. He previously played at the Vaal University of Technology and was their standout player in the 2024 season before move to TUT. Samukelo Ngodela (Tuks): The creative spark of the Stripe Generation front three who has scored numerous goals for Tuks over the past few seasons. Relebohile Matima (UWC): 2024 champions UWC make their return to the tournament after missing out last season. Captain Relebohile Matima was a part of that title winning side and was a key player that saw the Cape side lift the trophy. He brings experience and a renewed hunger so keep an eye on him to feature heavily. Phiwayinkosi Mchunu (DUT): Rasta has been a fan-favourite in the eyes of DUT fans but has also become a crucial playmaker within the KZN based team so he will be crucial if they will want to make a bigger impression this season. Phaswana Maano (UL): Versatile defender who can play as a striker so look out for him to make a big impact as the Limpopo side return to the tournament. Fixtures: HERE   Tickets: HERE

From Wits' emphatic return to the competition and UJ's unbeaten run through the round robin stages to TUT's giant killing semi-final performance the 2025 Varsity Football tournament delivered another unforgettable season with UFS lifting the trophy on home soil, showcasing exactly why Varsity Diski remains one of the country's premier university sporting competitions. Here's how the 2025 season played out. Round 1: The opening round got the tournament off to a flying start as returning giants Wits announced themselves in style with an impressive 4-1 victory over CUT in Johannesburg. TUT began their campaign with a narrow 1-0 win over DUT at the iconic Harry Gwala Stadium, while UJ and NWU shared the spoils in a closely fought encounter. Round 2: Round two continued to deliver exciting football as Wits maintained their perfect start with a convincing 2-0 victory over DUT. UJ secured a valuable away win in Bloemfontein after edging UFS 1-0 thanks to a late winner, while NWU captain Aphelele Sibisi proved the difference against CUT with a decisive header. The Tshwane derby between TUT and UP-Tuks ended in a draw as both sides collected a point. Round 3: The race for the semi-finals began to intensify in round three. TUT climbed to the top of the standings following a convincing 3-1 victory over CUT, while UJ claimed Johannesburg derby bragging rights with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Wits. UFS secured an important 2-1 away victory over DUT to continue their climb up the table, while NWU and UP-Tuks played out another goalless draw. Round 4: Round four saw the momentum continue to shift as UJ extended their unbeaten run and climbed to the summit of the standings after a narrow 1-0 victory over UP-Tuks at UJ Soweto Stadium. UFS claimed successive victories after a dramatic late winner secured a 1-0 triumph over NWU, while CUT celebrated their first victory of the campaign by defeating DUT 2-1. In Johannesburg, Wits and TUT shared the points after a competitive 1-1 draw. Round 5: As the tournament entered its closing stages, the battle for knockout places intensified. Log leaders UJ were held to a 1-1 draw by DUT, while UFS claimed Bloemfontein derby honours with a 2-1 victory over CUT. NWU boosted their semi-final ambitions by defeating TUT 1-0, while UP-Tuks' hopes suffered a setback after a 1-1 draw against Wits. Round 6: The penultimate round proved decisive. UJ and UFS officially secured their semi-final places with hard-fought 1-0 victories over TUT and Wits respectively. UP-Tuks finally recorded their first victory of the season in emphatic fashion by thrashing CUT 5-0, while NWU strengthened their own knockout ambitions with a crucial 1-0 away victory over DUT. Round 7: The final round of league fixtures confirmed the semi-final line-up. NWU produced a dominant 3-0 victory over Wits in Mahikeng to book their place in the final four, while TUT pulled off a surprise result by defeating UFS 2-1 in Bloemfontein to secure the final semi-final berth. UJ completed a remarkable unbeaten round robin campaign after edging CUT 1-0 away from home, while UP-Tuks finished their season with an impressive 4-0 victory over DUT but narrowly missed out on qualification for the knockouts. The semi-finals were set with UJ hosting TUT and NWU welcoming UFS. Semi-finals: The knockout stage delivered two gripping contests. TUT stunned the previously unbeaten UJ with a disciplined 1-0 victory to book their place in the championship match. In the other semi-final, UFS held their nerve in a dramatic penalty shootout to defeat NWU 4-3 after an evenly contested encounter, securing their place in front of a home crowd for the final. Final: The 2025 Varsity Football Men final produced a fitting conclusion to a highly competitive season. Hosted at Shimla Park in Bloemfontein, neither UFS nor TUT could find a breakthrough during 90 minutes as the match finished goalless. The championship was ultimately decided from the penalty spot, where UFS held their composure to claim a 5-4 shootout victory, securing the Varsity Football Men 2025 title in front of their home supporters. Varsity Football 2025 HIGHLIGHTS: UFS vs TUT The tournament also celebrated several outstanding individual performances: FNB Player of the Tournament: Aphelele Sibisi (NWU) Suzuki Golden Boot: Keletso Sekhwela Cashbuild Golden Glove: Ethan Mokwena With new rivalries established, emerging stars announced and another deserving champion crowned, anticipation is already building for an even bigger Varsity Football campaign in 2026 which kicks-off on 7 Aug.

The University of the Free State (UFS) will begin the defence of their Varsity Football title on Friday and, as is the nature of the competition, they will need to be at their best from the opening whistle when they host the ever-dangerous University of Pretoria (UP-Tuks) at Shimla Park in Bloemfontein. There is certainly pressure on UFS, given the quality of their opponents, while they will also have a target on their backs after their remarkable 2025 campaign, during which they defied the odds to win the title. The man who masterminded that memorable triumph was head coach Mokete Tsotetsi. He has since had more time to work with his squad and mould them into a team he believes is capable of successfully defending their crown. “Going into the tournament as defending champions, it’s not easy,” said Tsotetsi. “Obviously, we need to be confident and believe that we can retain the championship. The confidence is there because of the way we’ve been preparing.” The former Bloemfontein Celtic and Kaizer Chiefs centre-back stressed the importance of learning from the past without dwelling on it, choosing instead to focus on the challenge ahead. “We need to put last year behind us as history and focus on the future,” Tsotetsi added. “We take what we did right and try to improve on it, while also looking at where we can be better. This is a new year and a new tournament. “Teams will approach games differently now because we are the champions. We’re not forgetting what happened, but we’re taking the positives from last year and building on them. “We still have about 70% of the squad that participated last year, with some new players coming in. It’s a good balance. The core of the team is still there, and the new players have added to the group.” The UFS Blues will kick-off their eagerly anticipated title defence against UP-Tuks at Shimla Park on Friday, with kick-off scheduled for 17:00. UFS Mens Provisional Squad Lethokuhle Zipho Makhaya, Pule Leqela, Itumeleng Louw, Sandile Mhlanga, Ben Gaebolae Kraai, Simphiwe Sfiso Mbuyisa, Philani Zondi, Paballo Makgareetse, Sphesihle Alwande Magasela, Luvuyo Siyanda Kwasi, Thabang Ntohla, Keabetswe Malefetsane Dikgele Mofokeng, Jarome Abe Jansen, Rhulani Fortune Nkosi, Tshepo Shelton Ndlovu, Kagisho Sabata Lekholoa, Kagiso Blessing Semenya, Samkelo Nakedi, Thandolwethu Thabethe, Sachile Eusil Nyathi, Rantsane Erdwin Peete, Adolph Emport Radingoana, Ivence Mbhele, Thabang Mollo. Fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE

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

The University of Limpopo (UL) Mens is returning to the Varsity Football tournament with renewed belief and a clear ambition to compete with the country’s best. After missing out on the competition since the 2018 edition, the Limpopo side has spent months preparing for its return and is eager to prove it deserves to be in this season of varsity football tournament. With confidence growing in the camp and strong support from the university community, UL is embracing the challenge ahead. The team’s focus this season is to compete, grow and challenge for the title. While the head coach wants the players to develop from the experience, the squad is determined to fight for every point and make a lasting impression. With new additions strengthening the team, UL believes it has what it takes to compete against the country’s elite. “Our preparations exceeded our expectations because we started with a good number of players and finished without any major injuries. That alone is a bonus going into the tournament,” said head coach Lesetja “Dukes” Laka. Laka explained that the technical team’s biggest focus was preparing the players mentally for the demands of Varsity Football competition. “We have worked very hard to be here, and we believe we deserve to compete on this stage. Our approach is the same in every game we want to be aggressive, intentional and collect maximum points,” he said. Leading the team is captain Reggie Kabelo Masebe, who described the squad as hungry and fully committed to making the most of the opportunity. “All I see in the players is hunger and a willingness to fight for the badge, the fans and the university. We believe this is a life changing moment, and we’re ready for it,” said Masebe. “The only thing we’re looking forward to is the trophy. That’s our goal.” UL Men will begin their campaign against DUT Men at Oscar Mpetha Stadium on Friday, 7 August, with kick-off scheduled for 18:30. UL Provisional Squad: Mosa Mabitsela, Phuti Selemela, Reggy Masebe, Fesbon Ngobeni, Maano Phaswana, Malwandla Makamu, Simon Malebe, Katlego Mathabathe, Lethabo Baloyi, Happyboy Mogomotsi, Theto Mohale, Loui Sekole, Tebogo Setlhako, Kagiso Shokane, Clement Makwea, Vuyo Sibuyi, Junior Matambele, Kholofelo Mamabolo, Sibusiso Mase, Lesedi Kgadima, Thierry Mohlabeng, Xola Nava, Phemelo Sebothoma, Freddy Kganyago. Fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE By: Lebogang Mathaba

With only nine players of the 28 provisional squad members having prior Varsity Football experience, the youthful Durban University of Technology (DUT) team faces a major test of character and resilience as they step onto the national stage for the 2026 Varsity Football edition. These are the sentiments echoed by newly appointed young DUT Head Coach, Andile Mavundla. “Our attitude this season is that whatever we were last year, we want to be better. We have a lot of new faces, and at the same time it’s a lot of young guys. Even so, our main target for this year is to be better,” said Mavundla. Mavundla is no stranger to the Varsity Football competition as well as the culture of the men in black and white of DUT, as the tactician has been involved with DUT Football’s mentorship since their first season of the Varsity Diski campaign back in 2024, including his role as Assistant Coach of the same team last season. For the past seasons since their debut, DUT have had it difficult in the #Iyachesa competitions and with this being their third consecutive appearance in the competition, the KZN side clearly admits that they have another mountain to climb as their first match of this season, against University of Limpopo, fast approaches. “Of course, like any other team, our preparations can never be enough. However, we have done our part and we have no complaints,” he said. “We are going into the first match feeling confident, it will be a test of our resilience.” The men from KwaZulu-Natal will be without their towering strong defender Xolani Mkhonza this year, the important skipper who’s goal against UJ last year earned the KZN team their only point last season after a surprising 1-1 draw in Joburg. Despite departures from the likes of Mkhonza and other key figures, the leadership vacuum is expected to be firmly filled by the exciting rising talent that remains in the team such as shot-stopper, Sekwanele Mtolo, who has since been giving the go-ahead in the captaincy role. DUT Provisional Squad Samkelo Zulu, Smangaliso Delwa, Sekwanele Mtolo, Mbulelo Mavuso, Luyanda Ntuli, Philasande Shabalala, Zethembe Dlamini, Nqubeko Magoso, Sibonginhlanhla Hlatshwayo, Thalente Mjilo, Lusiba Dlamini, Sandile Mazeka, Thembinkosi Mchunu, Sandiso Xaba, Bonga Mthembu, Fanelesibonge Ndwandwe, Awande Buthelezi, Mandisi Ndlovu, Ntokozo Ndlovu, Kwanele Vilakazi, Asanda Dube, Nkululeko Nkosi, Nkosiyezwe Buthelezi, Samkelo Maduma, Ayanda Maphumulo, Lwazi Mweli, Prince Msibi, Nqobile Dlamini.Xaba, Bonga Mthembu, Fanelesibonge Ndwandwe, Awande Buthelezi, Mandisi Ndlovu, Ntokozo Ndlovu, Thalente Mkhize, Khulekani Nxumalo, Ayanda Maphumulo, Asanda Dube, Nkululeko Nkosi, Nkosiyezwe Buthelezi, Samkelo Maduma, Nqobile Dlamini, Kwanele Vilakazi, Mbulelo Mavuso, Prince Msibi. Fixtures: HERE  Tickets: HERE By: Mpendulo Letsoalo

After months of intensive preparation, rebuilding and hard work, UWC says is ready to challenge for honours once again and reclaim the trophy they won in 2024. The Cape Town-based side failed to qualify for the tournament last season and didn't get the opportunity to defend their title, but they are back and have spent the past four to five months preparing for the upcoming tournament with the coaching staff focusing on rebuilding the squad following last year's disappointment. Speaking ahead of the competition, the team's coach Lwando Mdleleni said the rebuilding process began at the start of the 2025 season, with the club retaining a core group of experienced players while introducing several younger players to inject fresh energy into the squad. "We had to rebuild the team because last year we were not able to defend our trophy," said Mdleleni. "We managed to retain some of the players and then brought in young blood and fresher faces to add energy to the team." The squad has undergone two training camps as part of its preparations, although injuries have presented a challenge. "We've been struggling with some major injuries. Some of the players are still rebuilding their confidence after undergoing operations," he explained. "Fortunately, the new players coming in will be able to step up when needed." To sharpen the team's match fitness, UWC has also arranged several friendly matches, including a fixture against Stellenbosch FC and another against Hope FC as part of their final preparations. The coach believes the demanding preparation period has laid a solid foundation but says the true test will come once the tournament gets underway. "It has been a gruelling four or five months of preparation for the boys. Hopefully they will be able to showcase what they've been working on. You never really know how well you've prepared until you play your first game,” he adds. He also called on football supporters across Cape Town to rally behind the team. "We encourage Capetonians to come out and support their sons and brothers. We also encourage our communities to get behind the team because UWC is part of the Cape Town community." With renewed determination, a blend of experience and youthful talent, UWC FC is confident it can mount a serious title challenge. "We're looking forward to having a great tournament, and hopefully we'll be able to reclaim our trophy." UWC Mens Provisional Squad Zubeir Mohamed, Nyiko Khoza, Luky Mncedi, Wanda Ntsonkotha, Zamian Plaatjies, Imaan January, Liam Arendze, Qhayisa Lekata, Iviwe Dyabuza, Imaad Hoosain, Malinga Mdodana, Sesethu Ntuku-Ntuku, Asakhe George, ZuKhanya Qaba, Zeke Herman, Gomolemo Marumo, Mesuli Manzi, Luphulo Zini, Arnold Bafana Dube, Relebohile Matima, Vuyani Ncontsa, Ezile Mangcotywa, Tyrese Davids, Bonga Zono. Fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE By: Phiri Cawe

Having narrowly missed out during critical stages of recent campaigns, the University of Johannesburg (UJ) enters this year’s Varsity Football tournament with renewed energy, high ambitions, and an experienced squad eager to reclaim the crown. UJ’s recent Varsity Football history reflects a proud legacy of excellence, featuring three consecutive final appearances in 2021, 2022, and 2023. After a brief hiatus in 2024, the Orange Army returned with determination last year, advancing to the semi-finals before falling to Tshwane University of Technology (TUT). This season, however, the narrative is built around maturity, tactical depth, and an unwavering drive to go all the way to the final. A strong core of seasoned players returns to lead the charge this season. Chief among them is veteran midfielder Ndabezinhle “Juice” Nkosi, a standout figure who featured in UJ’s last four tournament appearances and played a vital role in lifting the championship trophy in 2021. His leadership, alongside a battle-hardened 2025 contingent, gives UJ an invaluable competitive edge. "We have a much more experienced team compared to last year. The guys are battle-scarred from last season's campaign and are raring to go all the way this year," said head coach Karabo Mogudi. "University teams are constantly in transition, but I believe we have stabilised exceptionally well. We have built a solid foundation that will carry us for years to come. I expect an exciting tournament, and as our motto clearly states; we aim to go All The Way!” The tournament kicks off with a high-stakes clash against familiar rivals TUT - a matchup that promises high intensity from the opening whistle. "The Orange Army has prepared meticulously to ensure that we are in a strong position to win every home game," Mogudi explains. "We want to transform our Soweto Campus into an absolute fortress. With the vibrant 'Orange Wave' of supporters backing us in the stands, we are best placed to achieve this goal." UJ Provisional Squad: Kyle van Rensburg, Morakana Mathidza, Tumelo Matchete, Ofentse Motlhabi, Njabulo Jele, Sinenhlanhla Mkhonza, Phadishi Kaka, Sanele Mncube, Siphesinhle Nkambule, Tshepo Mosieleng, Reotshepile Makokwe, Keletso Sekhwela, Ndabezinhle Nkosi, Tokoloho Vilakazi, Yasidu Lifa, Ukhonaye Magele, Elijah Banda, Goitseone Mongatane, Mfundi Ngema, Bonolo Magoro, Tebogo Motshelanoka, Koketso Monyama, Bayanda Mkhonza, Reece Goldsworthy. Fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE By: Collen N. Maepa

After a seven-year absence from the competition, Walter Sisulu University Women are ready to make their return to the Varsity Football stage when the 2026 tournament kicks off on 1 August. WSU earned their place back among the country's top university teams following an impressive performance at the USSA Football Championships, marking their first appearance in the competition since 2018. Head coach Buyisile Khunou says qualifying for Varsity Football has given the squad renewed belief while highlighting the continued growth of women's football at the university. "It felt so good and exciting. Qualifying acts as a motivation for the team and is a positive reflection on the university's commitment to women's sport," said Khunou. Preparation for the tournament has centred on more than just technical and tactical work. The coaching staff has placed a strong emphasis on building team unity while ensuring the players are mentally prepared for the challenge ahead. "We've focused on team-building sessions to reduce anxiety while promoting teamwork, discipline and a die-hard attitude," Khunou explained. "It means a lot to the players because of the exposure they will receive, and for the university it reflects the opportunities and development of our women's football programme." On the field, supporters can expect a patient and disciplined approach from the returning side. "Our strategy is simple. We want to play open football with patient build-ups," he said. Leading the team onto the national stage will be captain Okuhle "Hotto" Mrulwa, who Khunou believes will play an important role throughout the campaign. Fans should also keep an eye on midfielder Lilitha Mjungula, who is expected to be one of WSU's standout performers during the tournament. WSU begin their Varsity Football 2026 campaign against Wits Women at 13:00 on Saturday, 1 August, at Tuks Stadium as they look to make an immediate impact on their return to the competition. WSU Provisional Squad: Lisakhanya Likona Ngewu, Ncebakazi Mqwayi, Zizipho Babgo, Angel Shabalala, Buhle Nokugcina Buthelezi, Ayabulela Nothi, Lisakhanya Msengana, Esoxolo Nyholo, Nintu Jele, Lilitha Mjungula, Karabo Mavuso, Zanele Su-Ritha Hahau, Okuhle Mrulwa, Lilita Ncwanekazi Mweli, Onako Nomhomfu, Emihle Nase, Oyeba Manqate, Asange Mizozo Maqhubela, Mandisa Nomfundo Gumede, Yalandisa Matiso, Sinesipho Mamfengu, Thembisile Manika, Sisanda Dladla, Amahle Myaka. Fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE