The first-round matches of the 2024 Women’s Varsity Football tournament started on high after today’s action at the TUT Stadium in Pretoria. Day one brought nothing but the action-packed with iyachesa diski flair of spectacular goals and results with the defending champions UWC stunned by UJ while NWU and TUT smiled after victories.     CPUT 0-1 CUT     The 2024 edition of the Varsity Women’s Football tournament got underway at TUT Stadium on Friday, 26 July with the CPUT from the Western Cape losing out 1-0 against the CUT from the Free State.  The game saw two teams with not much experience in the competition with CUT making a debut in the tournament, while CPUT made an appearance after a lengthy period away.  The first real chance came inside the first 10 minutes, when CPUT played a corner in with CUT shot stopper, Malefa Mantso fumbling the ball, which passed the face of her goal line. Other than that, there was not much threat, which saw the team exchanging possession, but both had to settle for a 0-0 reading of the scoreboard at the break.   The second half saw the game continue in a similar manner as far as it being a tightly contested match up. CUT did however come into their own a little better, stringing passes together a little better, which eventually paid dividends in the 58th minute, when Maleqhwa Mokoena received a well weighted pass that she dispatched past CPUT’s Nonhle Ngema and give her side a 1-0 lead.  CUT then continued to bring on fresh legs out on the park, with CPUT surprisingly not ringing up the changes despite trailing. In the end, CUT was able to hold out and clinch all 3 points in the tournament opener.    Scorers: CUT –  Maleqhwa Mokoena    FNB Player of the Match: Keneilwe Nqai (CUT).     CPUT:  Nonhle Ngema, Mesuli Bhungalipheli, Zinhle Hlela (C), Fumane Moeti, Sinothando Lirula, Uphile Ngqentsu, Mosetsanagape Theodorah Leepile, Sinelisiwe Phumlomo, Pumelela Mtongana, Truddy Mzinyathi, Anathi Mpama.    CUT: Malefa Mantso, Pontsho Mokgethi, Siyavuya Magoswana, Sesinyane Motlhale, Dimpho Lehasa, Ipeleng Motlhale, Keneilwe Nqai (C), Kefuwe Rampooana, Lebohang Madiboho, Maleqhwa Mokoena, Tebello Hashatsi.    NWU 3-1 Wits     NWU and Wits Women’s Football provided a mouthwatering clash in the second game of the 2024 Varsity Women’s Football tournament group stage, as NWU were able to shrug off a fighting Wits outfit 3-1 and clinch all three points.  NWU had a dream start to the game as Zanile Khoza showed great composure inside the opening 20 seconds of the match to lob Wits goalkeeper, Nthabiseng Ramaisa and give her team an early lead. Wits were then unlucky not to level matters, when they were denied a penalty and then moments later putting the ball in the net before it was chalked off by the officials.   NWU did however get a second goal courtesy of Pholoso Molokwe, who raced inside the Wits half before calmly slotting her shot in at the 31-minute mark. Wits managed to get their own on the brink of the break, when they were awarded a penalty after a foul was committed in the NWU box, Imaan Parker stepped up and put away to see a 2-1 scoreline at the interval.  In the second half NWU were given an opportunity to extend their lead, after awarded a penalty, which Wits shot stopper Ramaisa had no issues keeping her team in with a chance in the game with the score remaining 2-1.   As the game neared the end, NWU had the last laugh as Reboane Mojahe received a pass from Khoza as she tapped in at the back post to secure a 3-1 win.     Scorers:   NWU – Zanile Khoza, Pholoso Molokwe, Rebaone Mojahi.  Wits - Imaan Parker .     FNB Player of the Match: Zanile Khoza (NWU).    NWU: Charlotte Karabo Tshili, Kelebogile Makwela, Hlalefang Moledi (C), Koketso Mathe, Kgomotso Moabelo, Florah Khoza, Palesa Mnguni, Mpho Molwele, Pholoso Molokwe, Zanile Khoza, Rebaone Mojahi.    Wits: Ayanda Mnyembane, Thalente Ntamane, Imaan Parker, Nthabiseng Ramaisa, Lusanda Nyathi, Sakhi Mnomiya, Bacebile Ngema, Sizakele Ndlovu, Magogodi Litlhakanyane, Beyoncé Van Wyk, Lesego Masemola.     UWC 0-1 UJ     Relentless UJ beat defending champions UWC 1-0 in a thrilling encounter. Patience Sekhukhuni’s long range shot was the difference as defending champions UWC opened their 2024 Varsity Women’s Football against UJ in a repeat of the 2023 final.   UJ started the game with high intensity and threatening attacks, on their quest to avenge last year’s final. UWC remained calm and solid in defence, not allowing UJ any real chance at grabbing the lead.   UJ continued to dominate possession and looked dangerous on the wings with Ayesha Moosa and Refilwe Maseko causing problems for the UWC.  The experienced forward combination for UWC in the shape of Chelsea Daniels, Ronnel Donnelly and Nabeelah Galant combined well in the attack. Thinasonke Mbuli’s charges almost got their efforts rewarded when captain Tiffany Kortjie saw her strike denied by the upright in their only chance in the game. The two giants going into the break at nil apiece.  It was the Johannesburg based side that returned rejuvenated in the second half as they grabbed an early lead, Sekhukhuni powered an unquestioned long range shot to hand her side a deserved 1-0 lead.   UWC wandered throughout the second half and their efforts were fruitless. UJ remained relentless in their attack and secured a 1-0 victory.    Scorers: Patience Sekhukhuni (UJ)    FNB Player of the Match: Gugu Dhlamini (UJ).    UWC: Thandeka Ngcobo, Bongeka Gamede, Fikile Magama, Unathi Simayile, Ember Edwards, Vonisiwe Faith Maswanganyi, Akholiwe Matsotsi, Tiffany Kortjie (C), Chelsea Daniels, Ronnel Donnelly, Nabeelah Galant.    UJ:  Lerato Lefa, Sbongakonke Mzobe, Gugu Dhlamini, Refilwe Maseko, Ayesha Moosa, Shannon Macomo, Sthembile Sandleni, Mihle Lumko, Thato Mofolo, Patience Sekhukhuni, Matshidiso Masebe.     TUT 2-1 UP-Tuks     TUT captain Tshegofatso Motlogelwa stole the show as her brace secured victory for her side in the Tshwane derby.  TUT played hosts to UP-Tuks in the blockbuster encounter of the night. As anticipated the match up did not disappoint with loads of action as both teams threw everything at each other early in the game. The home side were the first to ask questions as Motlogelwa saw her free kick hit the posts.   Maude Khumalo’s troops responded quickly as they caught TUT napping. TUT failed to clear their line which saw Thembelihle Masibi headed home a dinked cross to hand her an early 1-0 lead.  TUT continued their attack with quick transition football, the Red Army saw their efforts rewarded as they got a penalty in the 20th minute. Trusted with the responsibilities, Motlogelwa stepped up and converted from the spot. The two sides went into the break undivided at 1-1.  In the second half TUT looked a stronger side in counter attack which led to Tuks committing fouls in dangerous areas. TUT finally grabbed the lead for the first time in the dying minutes of the game through Motlogelwa’s free kick which saw Tuks goalkeeper failing to protect the ball as it ended up in the net from her hands, a huge blunder from Khumalo’s trusted last line of defence.   TUT victorious in the end grabbing a slender 2-1 win.    Scorers:   TUT  - Tshogofatso Motlogelwa (2)  UP-Tuks  - Thembelihle Masibi    FNB Player of the Match: Tshogofatso Motlogelwa (TUT).    TUT: Retshepaone Valencia Ntwayagae, Glanny Mafikeng, Dineo Sharol Ramaoka, Sibongile Ntoane, Mamikgase Senyatsi, Gift Makanya, Mokgaetji Ramanna, Tshogofatso Motlogelwa (C) Ogone Motshabi, Lindiwe Nkambule, Paballo Chela.    UP-Tuks: Kgothatso Manamela, Morongwa Manamela (C), Ntando Phahla, Zikhona Mgotywa, Zikhona Ngenelwa, Ibanathi Msindo, Nonhlakanipho Lucy Filand, Thando Khubeka, Thembelihle Masibi, Tiisang Leseyane, S’Bahle Ndlovu.        Fixtures   HERE    Tickets   HERE

The opening round of the much anticipated 2024 Varsity Men’s Football took center stage on Thursday 25 July with good results going to a few teams. UFS traveled to NWU Mafikeng Stadium where the Bloemfontein based side walked away with all the points beating NWU 3-1. UP-Tuks followed suit at home against VUT, clinching the match after 1-0 victory.   Here are the players who impressed in round 1: Thuso Mlamla (TUT).   Thuso Mlamla's impact in TUT's 1-1 draw against UWC at home, is also a captain for his side - Mlamla played a vital role in helping his side walk away with one point in the first round of competition. “I think we started well, especially the first 10 minutes, that’s why we were able to get the goal. We did well by wanting the second one but we conceded a penalty which we could’ve done better. “We are a bit disappointed because we were playing at home. We needed the three points, but the guys did their best, and we did our best.  We will rest, regroup and go again next week, thanks.”   Matome Rangata (UP-Tuks)   The agile attacker worked tirelessly in tearing apart the VUT defence creating the much needed chances for his side. With the game ending 1-0 in favor of Tuks, Rangata played a vital role in the Tuks attacks. Rangata closed off the impressive night with an assist.   "I give credit to my teammates because without them I wouldn't be playing this way, so this one is for the whole team. I'm happy with my performance. I just wish I could be consistent in doing it. I feel like we should have scored one or two more goals because we had so many chances."   Jarome Jansen (UFS)   Jarome troubled the NWU defence throughout the game, creating numerous opportunities for his teammates, especially jersey number 15 (Boy Rantsoti), who scored both goals for the team. Jansen's outstanding performance earned him the Man of the Match award. In his acceptance speech, he expressed gratitude for the recognition but emphasized that his success was a team effort, crediting his teammates for their support and contributions. "I am very happy, having won this man of the match and we won the game but without my teammate, this wasn't going to be possible. I am very grateful for the opportunity to be a player of the match and make an impact on my team."   Philasanda Mthembu (DUT)   The DUT goalkeeper, Philasanda Mthembu, may not have been named as the man of the match in the goalless draw against CUT in Bloemfontein. However, his actions in the 61st minute earned the debutantes a point on the road in their first game of Varsity Football when he saved a penalty to deny CUT what would have been the win. Mthembu said confidence is an important quality a goalkeeper needs. “I hope this clean sheet will give us more momentum to push even harder. A penalty is not an easy thing to save, it’s very, very difficult. A player is free to score, but I always back myself and that comes from confidence.” Fixtures   HERE   Tickets   HERE

UP-Tuks Women’s Football debutant Ntando Phahla delighted to represent Tuks in the upcoming season. The Pretoria side looks to win their maiden Varsity Women Football tournament and will open their account against rivals TUT. Coach Maude Khumalo’s newest edition in the squad, Ntando Phahla looks impressive in The Stripe Generation colours. “I want to give gratitude to the coaches for the opportunity they gave me to represent Tuks. I hope I will continue my performances in Varsity Football.” said Phahla. Phahla’s football journey stems from when she used to follow her brothers when they went to play and she has since gone to make everyone proud in the family, particularly her mom who believed in her from an early age. “I fell in love with football when my two brothers played football, I would stand on the touch line and watch them. I was only 7-years-old when my mom bought me my first soccer boots and that increased my confidence,” she said. “As I grew older I was fascinated that the coaches believed in me that they selected me in the starting line-up, I represented my school in the provincial tournaments and I got an opportunity to represent KZN and was selected to represent South Africa in Japan. Years later I won the COSAFA Cup in Malawi 2022.” “I am motivated that women’s football has been understated for a long time, now at least we have an opportunity to play. My mom used to tell me how she loved football but they never got the chance to play. My inspiration is to take South African football forward.” With only a few days left, Phahla and company look to impress in the Varsity Football. “I am excited to be part of the team in my first year of studying. I am more excited for the derby as the Stripe Generation we are ready and going for the win.” concluded Phahla.   Fixtures   HERE Tickets   HERE   By Lehlogonolo Ditshego

UJ Women's Football head coach Nthabeleng Modiko believes the 2024 Women’s Varsity Football season will bring out the best in them.UJ finished runners-up in last year's edition having lost to UWC in the final showdown. "The ambition is to fight hard and push every match for a favorable result and maximum points. We are always excited about this tournament, and we hope to make our university and supporters proud and display the culture and style of the #OrangeArmy," said Modiko. "We have a fairly youthful team, with a great mix of experience and a very energetic team."Modiko explains what the team's goal this season is. She says the Johannesburg based side is busy working on new developments to improve the club's standards. UJ also welcomes two new young players who according to Modiko will elevate the team system for the better."We have been working extra hard on our firepower upfront. We'd like to score more goals and set a new record for ourselves. Also to improve on the celebration moves, the girls have been practicing," she adds. "We are lucky to have young talents that have joined us this year as first years."Thato Mofolo and Gugu Dhlamini have already set ablaze in the senior league (Hollywoodbets Super League) with 10 and 8 goals respectively. So, it'll be their first time and we are excited for them." The tournament will start on the 26th of July.   UJ PROVISIONAL SQUAD Defenders: Atlegang Mogale, Cinderella Mibe, Faith Ramotsee, Lerato Lefa, Lungile Lucy Khumalo, Mihle Lumko, Patience Sekhukhuni, Shannon Macomo.   Midfielders: Ayesha Moosa, Bryden Mokobi, Kananelo Taiwe, Lesego Nhlapo, Sbongakonke Mzobe, Sthembile Sandleni.   Forwards: Afika Ndyulu, Gugu Dhlamini, Malitsatsi Mosala, Refilwe Maseko, Sithabile Xulu, Sphokazi Ngwenya, Thato Mofolo.    Goalkeepers: Elizabeth Mazivise, Matshidiso Masebe, Siphokazi Nontokozo Xaba.   UJ kick off their campaign against UWC on Friday 26 July at TUT Stadium (17:00).   Full fixture lists: HERE   For information on tickets, click HERE   By: Ayanda Frances Felem.

CUT will be drawing on their past experience as they face the DUT in Bloemfontein on Thursday night in their opening game of the 2024 Varsity Men Football. The Bloemfontein team may have finished in seventh during the 2023 campaign, but they are a more experienced and wiser outfit this year and there is some extra motivation. DUT in turn are playing in the popular competition for the first time, and there is no doubt that they will go to Mangaung wanting to make a big statement. One of CUT’s key experienced players is their giant in defence and captain again, Simo Ndlovu, who led the team with aplomb last year. Ndlovu said using their experience will be key as they have set their goal at reaching the top and then taking it from there. “We have new players that have come in and they have integrated nicely with the older players from last year,” said Ndlovu. “We're looking to build on last year, although we didn't have a great season, but there were really promising moments. Home ground advantage will be important as well as we seem to be playing more home games and will be looking to use our passionate fans as an extra player." “Regarding this week’s match, DUT are debutants and we will use our experience against them. When it comes to motivating the team, not much is needed, but the fact that Bloemfontein has a Premier Soccer League (PSL) club again for the first time since 2021 will drive the players to raise their game, as scouts will attend. “We’re aware that there is a professional club in Bloemfontein again in Marumo Gallants. So, players are excited to showcase their talent and since we are young, we’re all looking forward to impressing on the ‘big stage’,” Ndlovu added. Thursday night’s eagerly anticipated game between CUT and DUT at the CUT Stadium kicks off at 18:30. Fixtures HERE Tickets HERE

With the 2024 Varsity Men Football looming the UP-Tuks are not to be ignored as one of the most successful sides in the competition. The Pretoria outfit heads into the campaign with one of their experienced players hungry to deliver. One of the returning players is Matome Rangata, the midfielder believes his side is ready to rewrite the wrongs and compete for the title. “The 2022 season was a bit tough as we were a new team with only a few faces which featured in the previous campaign. Some of us as players had stage fright from the spectators in the stadium,” said Rangata. “Scoring was a challenge but we managed to get a few goals as we peaked a bit late in the tournament and unfortunately it was not enough to see us through. “The group is ready to give out the best possible performances that could help us on the journey to go all the way.” Rangata has had his targets set to assist his side this season. “My targets are helping the team go all the way in whichever way best suits the team and how our technical staff sees it best in doing things. I want to let the team shine before I shine,” he said. “Football has kept me away from a lot of bad things and everything negative. I am looking forward to a fun competition and making the fans look forward to attending our games.” Although Tuks did not make the final four in 2022, Rangata played an important role in Nicholas Stothard's troops and looks to contribute to the team. Rangata helped the team to victories for Inter-Varsity trophy and USSA Championship last year. “My Varsity Football debut was not how I hoped it would be, I wanted to score more goals but I managed to get one. I am looking to perform better. I don’t see myself as an individual player as I always focus on the goals we want to achieve as a team,” he concluded.   Fixtures   HERE Tickets   HERE   By: Lehlogonolo Ditshego

A fast start will be key for the CUT Women’s Football as they make their return to the Varsity Women’s Football this season. The team from Bloemfontein will be playing in the competition for the first time since 2019, but they will be banking on their regional league form in the Free State. That said, there is certainly also a lot of excitement heading into the tournament in Tshwane. CUT will kick-off their campaign in the opening match of the tournament at the TUT Stadium, and first up they will measure themselves against CPUT. The coach, Lefu Mohapi, is confident that although they are making a return after five years, they have plans in place to start with three points. “Every game is going to be important, but in the first game, that's where you've got to make your mark and a team or institution,” said Mohapi. “CPUT are first time contenders in the tournament and we are confident that we can claim three points to start off with. “We saw them playing at the USSA tournament and they are a very good side. Fortunately, we picked up pointers in watching their games, and we are confident that we have plans in place to win the game. “Because the tournament is being played in a 'bubble' where all the teams are around and you can see your opponents in action and thus plan accordingly.” The coach added that the ladies in the team are excited as this will be the first time they get to experience the tournament, but they will draw on their Sasol League form. “The feeling from the ladies is very much one of excitement. They are willing and raring to go. We've prepared really well for the past few weeks, and fortunately, most of the players in our team play in the Sasol League, where we are also currently at the top of the league in the Free State.”   CUT Provisional Squad   Goalkeepers:  Malefa Mantso, Gofaone Kgopane.   Defenders: Pontsho Mokhethi, Boitumelo Mrwarwaza, Sesinyane Motlhale, Dimpho Lehasa, Sizeka Adoons, Siyavuya Mgoswana, Siphikuhle Dlamini, Nosiviwe Gogela.   Midfielders: Kefuwe Rampooana, Disebo Mahlonoko, Sonia Baotlweng, Nqabakazi Hlatswayo, Portia Sefatsa.   Forwards: Keneilwe Nqai, Maleqhoa Mokoena, Ipeleng Motlhale, Tebello Hashatsi, Lebohang Madiboho. CUT kick off their campaign against CPUT on Friday 25 July at TUT Stadium (12:00).   Full Fixtures: HERE Ticket information:  HERE

NWU Men’s Football has announced the appointment of Nkululeko Khwezilomso Malgas as their new head coach ahead of the new Varsity Men’s Football. Malgas brings a wealth of experience and a diverse background in football coaching and analysis to the role. Malgas has dedicated his career to football development and coaching, he began his journey in football as a Regional Technical Officer for SAFA Amathole from 2003 to 2011. During this period, he also served as a full-time football coach at Walter Sisulu University (WSU). From 2005 to 2013, Malgas worked with University Sport South Africa (USSA) Football, where he held various roles including match analyst, assistant coach, and head coach. He further honed his coaching skills with Blackburn Rovers Football Club (NFD) as an assistant coach from 2011 to 2014, and with Mthatha City Football Club (ABC Motsepe League - EC) from 2014 to 2017, where he served as head coach and Technical Director. In 2018, Malgas expanded his expertise by working as a video and performance analyst at the University of the Free State. He later took on similar roles with TS Galaxy Football Club in 2018-2019 and the University of Pretoria (National First Division) from 2020 to 2022. Currently, he is involved with SAFA U20 & U23 National Teams as a video and performance analyst. He holds a Certificate in Sports Club Development from the University of Pretoria, and various coaching certificates from prestigious institutions. These include SAFA Level 1 and 2 Coaching Certificates, a UEFA Basic License in the Netherlands, and a FIFA Grassroots Instructors Course. Malgas mentioned that the NWU had shown interest in him a few years ago. "We kept in touch. After being at Tuks for five years, I realized that I needed a change, and fortunately, the head coach position was still vacant,” he said. "The team has seen a decline in producing players for professional clubs, but what attracted me to the institute is their massive potential to return to their previous success in this area. They're a sleeping giant with so much potential, with their massive infrastructure." Fixtures HERE Tickets   HERE   By: Phenyo Mokgothu

TUT Men’s Football will head into this season’s campaign looking to defend their title as undisputed owners of the Varsity Men’s Football tournament after lifting it for the fourth time last season. Bushy Moloi’s charges defeated coach Karabo Mogudi’s UJ 5-4 on penalties last year, and to make it a much sweeter victory, they did it at the well-manicured pitches of the University of Johannesburg.   The Red Army, as TUT are affectionately labeled and known, have a bullish mentality heading into the Varsity Football tournament having been one of the teams with the most appearances in this beautiful competition and having won it the most alongside their friends and nemesis, the University of Pretoria. The team’s leader and captain, Thuso Mlamla, says they’re in it to win it. “The coach always says to us that we have to play nine games, and nine games takes us all the way to the final, that is what we always plan for wabo (you see).  We know it won’t be easy at all because we are not playing against ourselves, but we know what we are capable of,” he said. “The mood has been very good in camp, we have new players from the TUT campuses, like Emalahleni, Mbombela, Soshanguve and of course the main campus, so we are ready.    The new players are excited and ready to help us win this trophy; we will work hard to achieve this dream as a team.”   TUT will open their account against the UWC on Thursday evening as they welcome them to the slaughter house in the capital, where men will be separated from boys.   TUT Provisional Squad:   Goalkeepers:  Mncedisi Zondo, Gomotsegang Nkuna, Luyanda Mandindi   Defenders: Nhlakanipho Zindela, Andile Malaka, Karabo Rangata, Succeed Matsimbi, Katlego Molobela, Nthokozo Mavimbela, Tebogo Etsane, Amukelani Sekele, Mnqobi Khumalo, Keatlaretse Legweng, Nqubeko Ntimbane. Precious Mohale, Siphesihle Sithole, Tumi Moloi.   Midfielders : Mncedisi Manana, VuyaniNgubane, Minenhle Khanyile, Lesley Letseka, Thobane Ngwenya, Sinqobile Mathumna, Tshiamo Kekana, Keletso Tseka, Risimati Khoza, Anda Yamile (Vice Captain), Thuso Mlambo (Captain), Katlego Motlhale, Madike Semosa, Swazi Kupa, Katlego Kgoete, Qhawe Maseko, Nare Mojapelo, Thabiso Majuba, Tebatso Monyane, Menzukhuthula Ntshangase, Neo Ramaphisa, Manuele Mofokeng, Oupa Mampuru   Strikers : Johannes Baloyi, Mpho Nhlapo, Lesedi Khosi.   Full Fixtures:  HERE Ticket information:  HERE   By: Selebalo Karabo Phasha.

The CUT Men’s Football squad are geared for another exciting edition of Varsity Men’s Football when they get their campaign underway at home on Thursday, 25 July at home against the DUT Men’s Football. CUT have had their issues in preparing for the upcoming campaign, but they remain upbeat and confident that they can turn in a better performance than last year, albeit they were satisfied with their 2023 season. Home ground advantage for their opening game is a big bonus, but it’s important to make the most of that and get off to a flying start. CUT coach, Patrick Malokase, said they are no doubt very excited to play in the popular competition again, and despite having some troubles in preparing they want to do better and they are confident that they can. “We are foreseeing a very exciting Varsity Football competition this year, and we are looking good and want to start well,” said Malokase. “This was a very difficult year for us, to be honest, with a lot of strikes in between the preparations, but despite this, I believe we are in a good space at the moment. The team is looking good. Malokase added that it’s always important to strive to be better than a previous campaign and he is confident that his charges are more than capable of achieving that. “We had a good tournament last year. Not so bad. But we are aiming to improve on our performance from last year. This is going to be very exciting. We are good, and we know there are exciting teams out there, such as the University of the Free State,” he said. “Then, we also welcome back a team like the University of Pretoria. Look, we are expecting it to be very challenging, but that’s what we're looking forward to the upcoming challenges. “We are ready and everything in the camp is looking good.” CUT kick off their campaign against DUT on Thursday 25 July at CUT Stadium (18:30). CUT Provisional Squad   Goalkeepers:  Kananelo Sehebeng, Katlego Mpasi, Mosioua Pejane.   Defenders: Pule Setsosa, Pogisho Dikole, Senzo Mokoena, Sibiya Awande, Siyabonga Mzemele, Thabang Mokoena, Ramokhafane Montshi, Moeletsi Khumalo.   Midfielders: Lehlohonolo Nkaekae, Tiisetso Mpholoana, Simo Ndlovu, Matala Malefetsane, Mpho Setloboko, Mpho Ngocobo, Cebisa Zikhalala, Mzwakhe Shabalala.   Forwards: Mthabiseni Mlambo, Oratile Mothibedi, Pule Thekiso, Nkosingiphile Lubisi, Lehakwe Phumo.   Full Fixtures: HERE Ticket information:  HERE

NWU Women's Football gearing up to make a big impression in the 2024 Varsity Football tournament, scheduled to take place from July 26 to 9 August 2024. Head Coach Alfa Dolopi and captain Hlalefang “Castro” Moledi expressed confidence in their readiness for the competition. "Our team is ready, mentally and physically. We will continue from where we left off during the USSA tournament," said Dolopi.   "We work as a group, and history will be made as we always perform beyond measure. Results come from sweat, dedication, and effort."   The NWU aims to build on their performance in the USSA tournament, where they demonstrated their strength and teamwork. The team's preparation has focused on improving tactics, addressing weaknesses, and enhancing overall performance.   The players have shown dedication in their training, which has been key to their readiness for the upcoming tournament.   As the NWU team heads into the tournament, the team carries the hopes and support of their university community. Their journey reflects not only their physical and mental preparation but also their unwavering dedication to sport and to each other.   The tournament is an opportunity for the team to demonstrate their progress and make a significant impact. Captain Moledi says the team's preparations have been going well ahead of the tournament.   "We are buzzing with readiness for the Varsity Football tournament. Our team has put in the graft, sweat, and tears to ensure we're in top shape, both physically and mentally.   "We've fine-tuned our tactics, worked on our weaknesses, and honed our skills. Every single player is ready to go, and we're confident in our ability to take on the best teams in the competition.   "We're ready to give it our all, leave everything on the pitch, and make our university proud. Bring on the tournament – we're ready to make our mark."   NWU PROVISIONAL SQUAD   Goalkeepers:  Koketso Montshonyane, Charlotte Karabo Tshili.   Defenders:  Hlalefang Moledi (Captain), Kelebogile Galeboe, Memory Mathe, Kelebogile Makwela, Nolwazi Ncana, Tshegofatso Tsupane.   Midfielders:  Florah Khoza, Kgomotso Moabelo, Lerato Monate, Keyshia Rametsi, Mabatho Okonkwo, Luyanda Mohlanga.   Forwards:  Rebaone Mojahi, Zanile Khoza, Veronica Maloma, Mpho Molwele, Pholoso Molokwe, Palesa Mnguni, Tshepang Sebopelo.   NWU kick off their campaign against TUT on Friday 26 July at TUT Stadium (14:00).   Full fixture lists: HERE   For information on tickets, click HERE     By: Phenyo Mokgothu

The UFS Blues hit the ground running in the opening round of 2024 Varsity Men Football and it doesn’t get any tougher than traveling to Mafikeng, where they will square off against the NWU. There is an age-old rivalry between these two fine institutions and that will certainly add more spice to what promises to be a cracking ‘derby’. Especially after their heated battle last season. In the 2023 season the Blues narrowly missed out on reaching the semi-finals again, and that was to a certain degree down to a lack of points on the road. UFS are ready this year though, they are confident, and they want redemption, especially against the rivals that held them to a draw in Bloemfontein last year. Captain, Boy Rantsoti, said for them it is important to set the tone early in the competition, while the word ‘redemption’ also lingers in the back of the mind. “The opening game will be a very tough one against the semi-finalists of 2023 Varsity football,” said Rantsoti. “Heading into the game, we are looking for redemption, because last year we played to a 1-1 draw against them at home, and with the game being the first one of the tournaments, it will be important to set the tone early. “Especially for the upcoming games, and we need to do well against NWU to show just how much we really want this.” Rantsoti added that the hard yards have been put in and this gives them confidence. “We know that it's not going to be easy, but we are very much prepared, and my players are excited and ready for the game. That is because we've all been putting in the work, and as tough as they are, I truly believe, and I am confident that we are going to win this upcoming game. “Apart from getting the three points, the objective is to set the tone early.” Thursday’s Varsity Cup opener between NWU and UFS in Mafikeng kicks off at 17:00.   Fixtures HERE   Tickets HERE