Defending champions TUT finally got the scoreboard properly rolling in round 2 of the 2023 Varsity Football competition. Ronald Mabaso was undoubtedly the hero with a four goal haul. Here are the players who impressed yesterday. Ronald Mabaso (TUT) It was the Ronald Mabaso show in Bloemfontein when TUT thumped CUT 6-2. He had feet of fire, scoring four goals to get the defending champions’ 2023 campaign going properly. Mabaso scored twice in the first half. He added insult to injury by netting twice more to hand his team a comprehensive win. Damien Overmeyer (UWC) Damian Overmeyer had three shots on target with the defensive-turned-attacking midfielder from UWC being a standout against UJ. Overmeyer's counter-attacking runs, ability to move forward and still be able to take key shots were unmatched. He put enormous pressure on the UJ defence and if it wasn’t for UJ goalkeeper Lona Richard Banga, the outcome could’ve been entirely different. Kamogelo Matane (NWU) NWU goalkeeper Kamogelo Matana put in a brilliant performance for NWU against VUT. Throughout the match, he stood as an impenetrable wall, thwarting every attempt made by the opposing team with remarkable agility and precision. Matane has managed to keep a clean sheet in both Varsity games so far, further solidifying his reputation as a formidable and indispensable asset to the NWU team. Bonke Nxiwa (UFH) UFH captain and centre-back Bonke Nxiwa had an outstanding game against UFS. He acted like a commander, slowing down the intensity of the game when it mattered most. He demonstrated outstanding leadership by winning almost all the aerial balls and dribbling past the UFS forwards. His switching of play from left to right wing-back improved their performance.

Defending champions TUT swept past CUT with a convincing victory in the second round of the 2023 Varsity Football competition. NWU also outscored VUT while elsewhere there were draws for UFH against UFS and UWC against UJ. UWC 0 UJ 0 UWC fought hard to salvage a point following a 0-0 draw against UJ Football at the UWC Sports Stadium. The game started at a high tempo with both teams looking dangerous. At 15 minutes, UWC put pressure on UJ's defenders as Devon Nolan's close strike went wide and the score remained 0-0. The high intensity of the match was pilingand the home side continued to be the better team creating several good chances. UWC had two clear chances to take the lead just before the end of the first half but their attempts failed as the UJ goalkeeper Lona Richard Banga pulled out an outstanding one-handed save. Ten minutes into the second half, UWC was awarded an indirect free kick after Matthew Petersen was tackled just a few inches outside the UJ penalty box but Petersen's kick went over the crossbar with the score remaining the same. UWC centre-back Damian Overmeyer had a clear chance to find the back of the net but Banga saved the day once again. UWC captain Craig Joemath was stretchered off after a collision with a UJ defender and the home side continued to play with 10 men. As the match was approaching the end, UJ created numerous chances as the Johannesburg-based team made it clear that they wanted to walk away with something.Leathan Croats however made two crucial saves to prevent it and the match ended in a draw. Player of the match: Richard Lona Banga (UJ) UWC: Leathan Croats, Craig Joemath, Damian Overmeyer, Jadan Zeeman, Siyabulela Mcimeli, Sandile Nomjila, RelebohileMatima, RiyaazKoopstadt, Devon Nolan, Leandro De Sousa, Khanya Alex Dyani. UJ: Lona Richard Banga, Karabo Modisane, Thabo Moshikere, MaseleseleMakoti, NgwakoRamaloko, Advocate Mokwena, Tumelo Molubi, Ntokozo Mathobela, Malik Mashinini, Mongezi Mncube, TokolohoVilakazi. UFH 1 UFS 1 UFH walked away with a one-all draw against UFS at the Davidson Stadium. Both teams began the game with a high degree of intensity. It took only ten minutes for UFS to score, with a wonderful cross from left-back Iviwe Dyabuza that found Meya Reatlehle free for a tap-in. In the dying minutes of the first half, UFH was awarded a penalty, which Athenkosi Dobefailed to convert due to a stunning stop by the UFS goalkeeper. The teams headed into the break with UFS leading 1-0. UFH began the second half with a sense of urgency. Their stellar defence made life difficult for UFS who were struggling to find the right channels. UFH had a second penalty, which was missed by attacker Sinobom Kapase. They kept pushing, and lucky for them, Kapase struck the back of the net with a fantastic finish to tie the score. UFH defensive midfielder Thabani Mqambelitook an early shower a few minutes after the goal, reducing the team to ten men. UFS appeared to be suffering in this game and was depending more on crosses. A highlight of the game for UFS was that they mostly won second balls but were unable to break the stubborn UFH defence. In the added minutes of the game, both teams were looking for that winner but were not successful and the game ended in a draw. Unfortunately, the game ended in a 1-1 draw. Goal Scorers: Meya Reatlehile (UFS), Sinobom Kapase (UFH) Player of the match: Iviwe Dyabuza (UFS) UFH: Lihle Vathu, AthenkosiJezi, SomelezeKapteni, BonkeNxiwa, MbekoBungane, ThabaniMqambeli, AthenkosiDobe, BubeleGcuku, SihleMathumbu, LonwaboBooi, SinobomKapase. UFS: TisetsoSeodinyane, IviweDyabuza, Obakeng Seekoei, Aphiwe Zulu, Thandolwethu Khoza, Lizwi Kunene, Ethan Goldstone, Eon Pieterse, ArlonsoDiedricks, Sambulo Sithole Boy, Rantsoti. TUT 6 CUT 2 It was the Ronald Mabaso show in Bloemfontein on Thursday night as defending champions TUT thumped CUT. Mabaso scored twice on either side of the halftime break for a complement of four goals as TUT beat the new boys on the block 6-2. In the first half, it was certainly the visitors that made better use of their chances as they managed to race to a 4-0 lead by the break. Mabaso’s first two goals as well as those by Tiego Mathebe and captain Tebogo Lekaba handed the visitors a clear advantage. Lehlohonolo Nkaekae and Pule Thekiso both managed to score for CUT in the second stanza, and it was Nkaekae’s free-kick in particular that was something special as it had David Beckham written all over it. Thekiso’s header into the back of the net in itself was the result of a sublime low cross by Nkaekae. Mabaso added insult to injury by netting twice more to hand his team a comprehensive win and CUT their first defeat. Scorers: CUT : 49’ Lehlohonolo Nkaekae 1-4, 71’ Pule Thekiso 2-5 TUT: 28’ Ronald Mabaso 0-1, 33’ Mabaso 0-2, 43’ Tiego Mathebe 0-3, 45’ + 2 Tebogo 0-4, 60’ Mabaso 1-5, 80’ Mabaso 6-2 Player of the match: Ronald Mabaso CUT: Motlalentwa Jacob Mbolekwa , LefaMatlase, Simo Ndlovu, Khotso Mphene, Tumelo Mothabeng, Mpho Alex Ngcobo, Pule Macdonald Thekiso, OratileMothibedi, PogishoDikole, TiisetsoMpholoana, LehlohonoloNkaekae. TUT: Luyanda Madindi, Alan Moja, Mekdiwe Bongani Ncenya, Tebogo Lekaba, Ndumiso Kubheka, ThusoMlamla, Anda Yamile, Hendrick MncedisiXaba, Ronald Mabaso, TshiamoMahome, TiegoMathebe. NWU 3 VUT 0 After a 0-0 draw in their first game against UJ, NWU scored an impressive 3-0 victory over VUT on home turf at the NWU Mafikeng Stadium The initial attempt at netting a goal by the NWU squad materialised just five minutes into the first half, only to be thwarted by the vigilant VUT goalkeeper. The pivotal moment arrived when the unstoppable Lesedi Bakai, positioned on the right flank of the team, expertly tapped in a cross, propelling NWU to a 1-0 lead at the 38-minute mark. As the second half commenced, both teams exhibited unwavering determination, yet it was once again NWU that exhibited greater hunger. 30 minutes into the second half Heaven Sereetsi orchestrated a two-touch play on the left side of the field before unleashing a shot that extended NWU's advantage to 2-0. NWU scored their third goal in the 88th-minute courtesy of a skilful buildup by Reatlegile Kgosithebe, who converted a one-on-one opportunity against the VUT goalkeeper. Scorers: Lesedi Bakai, Heaven Sereetsi, ReatlegileKgosithebe Player of the match: Lesego Motsepe (NWU) NWU: Kamogelo Matane, Lucas Seromo, Kananelo Motsoeneng, Khopotso Moshapo, ApheleleSibisi, Lesego Motsepe, Pascual Tivane, Thabang Majoro, ReatlegileKgosithebe, Lesiba Mahlong, Heaven Sereetsi. VUT: Thabiso Simon Moeketsi, Sizwe Sibeko, KgotsoNhlapo, PerceveranceMashabane, Medupi Thokolo, Kgabo Ngoepe, Simamkele Masiza, Ntokozo Mgidi, Jabulane KoketsoMazibuko, Roger Modiba, Kgahlisho Kgomoeswana. Fixtures for the next round are HERE. Information on tickets HERE.

CUT is preparing for another hard battle in Varsity Football when they come up against the defending champions TUT in Bloemfontein on Thursday. CUT earned one point for the 1-1 draw in their opening encounter against UWC in round one, and while it was a good start for ‘Amashangane’ there were lessons learnt to be learned. Captain and centre-back Simo Ndlovu say it’s about not putting too much pressure on his team, and rather enjoying the occasion and playing good football, despite the reputation and the class of TUT. “We mustn't be too scared to express ourselves. We need to make sure that we don't concede goals in the opening exchanges, and then we must utilize the chances that we get. “It's going to be a hard one against the champions since they managed a draw against Kovsies [UFS]. They will come out all guns blazing. I don't want to put pressure on my players and end up not achieving our objectives, and that is playing good football and enjoying the tournament. “We are going to fight and we've prepared well so far. We are going to try and match them and go toe-to-toe with them and give ourselves a chance for the three points.” The match between CUT and TUT at CUT Park on Thursday 3 August will kick off at 18:30. More information on fixtures HERE. For tickets, click HERE.

In the vast and competitive world of football, where dreams are born and champions are made, one name has been steadily ascending the ranks - Lesego Motsepe. He is representing NWU in the 2023 Varsity Football tournament. Known affectionately as "Walker” by his peers, this young and exceptionally talented player hails from the football-crazed city of Johannesburg. But beyond his remarkable skills on the field lies a deeper story of passion and unwavering dedication to the sport. From his humble beginnings at Balfour Alexandra Football Club to his aspirations of gracing European stadiums, Lesego's journey has become a testament to the power of dreams and relentless pursuit of greatness. Lesego's love affair with football commenced at the tender age of 7, when he first laced up his boots to join Balfour. From the outset, his passion for the beautiful game radiated brightly, propelling him to excel at the club until he turned 13. It was during this time that the footballing world began to take notice of his undeniable talent, eventually leading him to catch the eye of SuperSport United. On the pitch, Lesego’s preferred position is the dynamic role of a right-wing back, where his lightning speed and impressive dribbling skills come to the fore. Nevertheless, his versatility extends beyond a single position, enabling him to adapt seamlessly to various roles as the situation demands. The young football prodigy dreams of conquering the European football scene, setting an ambitious timeline for the next three years to turn that dream into reality. Fuelled by his remarkable talent and unwavering determination, Lesego aspires to secure a spot in a top European club, where he can compete at the highest echelons of the sport and continue to evolve as a player. Lesego says his Varsity Football experience has been a defining platform for his growth as a player. “I am still nervous and anxious just as I was when I first stepped onto the Varsity field in 2019. But I have learned over time to channel these emotions into focused determination. I try to use humour in the changing room to help new players adapt to the pressures of the competition.” by Phenyo Mokgothu

UWC captain Craig Joemath believes if he wasn't a footballer he would've been an athlete as he grew up loving running. The 24-year-old final year BA Sports Recreation and Exercise Science student is seeking to promote the sport in all areas and improve the youth by creating opportunities using sports. Joemath was born and raised in Mitchell’s Plain and played for a few top teams in Cape Town. He says running was another option. "I feel I would have been an athlete, a sprinter or hurdler, as I was involved in track events throughout my schooling and usually did well in my events. "I am a highly motivated individual who strives to do his best at all times. I always thought of myself as a natural leader, as I am responsible and dedicated in all aspects of my life. "I fell in love with football at a very young age, always setting myself goals to achieve in each season, that way I was always motivated to do better and improve my skill." Having played top-class football in the country, Jeomath recalls the toughest striker he has ever faced. "The toughest striker I ever faced will have to be Mpho Erasmus, the reason being I can be having the most exceptional game, he gets one chance and he scores, and all my hard work throughout the game is wasted. He was very lethal in front of the poles, with loads of experience. They called him Benzema, so you can only imagine what he brought to the table." UWC last had their hands on the Varsity Football silverware in 2015 and Joemath says the aim is to do so again. “The goal and aspirations for this campaign would primarily be to win this year’s Varsity Football. The squad is buzzing, we have assembled a diverse squad of players with each individual contributing in their way. We are a group of warriors, full of ambition." by Ayanda Frances Felem

Defending Varsity Football champions TUT began their title defence with a goalless draw last week against UFS at Shimla Park in Bloemfontein. This was even though Bushy Moloi’s charges had more opportunities in what was a fiercely contested match. They had to settle for a point as UFS was never going to be a walkover. Varsity Football proves to get tougher by the season, as TUT completed a double against UFS last season. TUT goalkeeper Luyanda Madindi was the last line of defence against UFS and had to deal with everything their opponents threw at them. “We could not capitalize on our chances in the first half, we never had good movement of the ball but it was our first match and we cannot put pressure on ourselves. “I am not sad but disappointed that we didn’t score because those boys showed respect to us. The performance I’ve shown was good because we managed to keep a clean sheet which is important to us as a defence.” With both teams failing to find the back of the net, UFS created more chances in the second half and kept Madindi busy in between the sticks. “It surely was a game to learn from, we shouldn’t put pressure on the forward players as it was very tough for them. We did not do our combinations like we normally do, we should fix our attacking because if we don’t score we create a lot of pressure on ourselves” Madindi adds. The Red Army now shifts their focus to their next hurdle, newcomers CUT who drew 1-1 in their first match against fellow newcomers UWC. Madindi believes they should not dwell too much on their previous games and move on to the next task. “We are playing all our games away and travelling is another problem because we have to study and it affects us. I promise we are going to score more goals in our next match”. By LehlogonoloDitshego

The action came thick and fast in round 1 of the 2023 Varsity Football competition. Here are the players who made their mark in those hotly-contested matches. Ethan Goldstone (UFS) Midfielder Ethan Goldstone had an outstanding game for UFS against the TUT. The lanky player had a few good touches to put his teammates into good positions on the attack. It was especially in the second half where he upped the tempo and his work rate. When he had the ball by his feet one just got the feeling that something might happen. On the defensive, he was also solid and the opposition had to be crafty to get past him. Aphelele Sibisi (NWU) Wearing the number 21 jersey in NWU’s opening round match against UJ, Sibisi certainly made his presence felt in his position as midfielder. Despite not having played for some time, being a first-year student and playing in his first Varsity Football, he showcased exceptional talent on the field. NWU coach, Amos Xabanisa was full of praise for Aphelele's performance, noting that he played a crucial role, executing the necessary instructions with precision. Riyaaz Koopstadt (UWC) At the heart of every UWC attack was Riyaaz Koopstadt. The midfielder pulled all the strings against CUT and he was duly awarded with the man-of-the-match accolade. Koopstadt's numerous runs into CUT's defensive end eventually wielded the desired results, as a well-placed shot earned saw his side drawing the encounter. Ntokozo Mgidi (VUT) VUT’s Ntokozo Mgidi stood out for his team in their victory over UFH. Their game revolved around him, and he was always available in the right spaces. Another hallmark of Ntokozo's playing was that he was a threat for the UFH defence and consistently beat his opponents in one-on-one situations. He was always seeking the opportunity to shoot with his superb right foot and was fortunate enough to score. Find out who will impress the most in round 2 which takes place this Thursday 3 Aug - FIXTURES HERE

Varsity Football returned to packed stadiums across the country when the opening round of the 2023 competition kicked off with four action-packed matches. And judging by what happened on the pitch, football fans can look forward to more exhilarating clashes over the next nine weeks. Defending champions TUT and UJplayed to a goalless draw while VUT scored an impressive away victory over UFH. NWU and UJ, and CUT and UWC also had to settle for draws in their respective first-round encounters. TUT 0 UFS 0 Defending champions and UFS shared the spoils in Bloemfontein after playing to a goalless stalemate. Despite this though, the first-round fixture was an exciting match with end-to-end action. It was a nervous start for both teams with neither side being able to take control. The first shot at goal only came in the 22nd minute and it came via the boot of TUT’s Ronald Mabaso. It was however well covered by the home side’s goalkeeper, Tisetso Seodinyane. TUT certainly was the more attacking team in the first half. UFS did create some chances, but the weight of their final passes was way too strong, preventing them to find the back of the box and putting any real pressure on the visitors. In the second stanza, the game opened up a little more especially towards the backend of the game and in desperation the shots on goal were being hit from further out. Both teams' defence was up to the task and this resulted in the points being shared. Player of the Match: Tebogo Lekaba (TUT) TUT: Luyanda Madindi, Alan Moja, Mekdiwe Bongani Ncenya, Tebogo Lekaba, Ndumiso Kubheka, Thuso Mlamla, Anda Yamile, Hendrick Mncedisi Xaba, Ronald Mabaso, Tshiamo Mahome, Tiego Mathebe. UFS: Tisetso Seodinyane, Iviwe Dyabuza, Obakeng Seekoei, Aphiwe Zulu, Thandolwethu Khoza, Lizwi Kunene, Ethan Goldstone, Eon Pieterse, Arlonso Diedricks, Sambulo Sithole Boy, Rantsoti. VUT 2 UFH 0 The game in the Davidson Stadium started with a high level of intensity from the visiting VUT team. They managed to create a goal-scoring opportunity within the first five minutes, but UFH goalkeeper Lihle Vathu made a spectacular save. VUT forced UFH into a defensive mode while UFH were aiming to punish their opponents with counterattacks. VUT however set the tone early on, dominating possession and playing in UFH's half. However, they were unable to break the deadlock before halftime. Then Perseverance Mashabane found the back of the net in the 47th minute from a free kick within range. VUT led 1-0 and continued to play with vigour and pressure on the ball. In the 57th minute, VUT’s Ntokozo Mgidicut at the edge of the box and unleashed a tremendous strike that put his team 2-0 up. After conceding the second goal, UFH made some significant tactical changes. When the game then began to open for the home team, they started creating some goal-scoring opportunities. But their strikers Sinobomu Kapase and Lehlonono Thuledifailed to capitalise. Scorers: 47’ 1-0 Perseverance Mashabane, 57’ 2-0 Ntokozo Mgidi. Player of the Match: Ntokozo Mgidi (VUT) VUT: Thabiso Simon Moeketsi, Sizwe Sibeko, KgotsoNhlapo, Perceverance Mashabane, Medupi Thokolo, Kgabo Ngoepe, Simamkele Masiza, Ntokozo Mgidi, Jabulane Koketso Mazibuko, Roger Modiba, Kgahlisho Kgomoeswana UFH: Lihle Vathu, Athenkosi Jezi, Someleze Kapteni, Bonke Nxiwa, Mbeko Bungane, Thabani Mqambeli, Athenkosi Dobe, Bubele Gcuku, Sihle Mathumbu, Lonwabo Booi, Sinobom Kapase. NWU 0 UJ 0 In a thrilling first-round match at the NWU Mafikeng Stadium, NWU and UJ showcased their prowess on the pitch, ultimately sharing the spoils. The encounter proved to be a nail-biting affair, with both NWU and UJ displaying tactical brilliance and demonstrating their defensive resilience. Throughout the match, the players exhibited their technical abilities, making it challenging for either side to break through the opposing defence. One critical moment came in the 44th minute when UJ was awarded a penalty after a contentious challenge in the box. Anticipation filled the stadium as Tumelo Molobi stepped up to take the spot-kick but the opportunity was squandered as the ball sailed wide. NWU coach Amos Xabanisa said they expected this kind of game from UJ. “They are a good side. They always give us a tough time, but I am happy we didn`t disappoint our supporters as we played at home. As for the next encounters at home, they are must-wins.” UJ Coach Karabo Mogudi said he was happy with a point away from home. “We squandered a scoring opportunity when we missed the penalty. Now it’s water under the bridge. I am happy with a draw away from home.” Player of the Match: Tumelo Molobi (UJ) NWU: Kamogelo Matane, Lucas Seromo, Kananelo Motsoeneng, Khopotso Moshap, Aphelele Sibisi, Lesego Motsepe, Pascual Tivane, Thabang Majoro, Reatlegile Kgosithebe, Lesiba Mahlong, Heaven Sereetsi. UJ: Lona Richard Banga, Karabo Modisane, Thabo Moshikere, Maselesele Makoti, Ngwako Ramaloko, Advocate Mokwena, Tumelo Molubi, Ntokozo Mathobela, Malik Mashinini, Mongezi Mncube, Tokoloho Vilakazi. CUT 1 UWC 1 A fiery affair played out in Bloemfontein on Thursday night. UWC made the journey to the City of Roses, to face newcomers CUT. The pressure was on the home side from early on, as the visitors pelted Motlalentwa Jacob Mbolekwa’s goal. UWC’s early efforts were in vain though CUT’s Pule Macdonald Thekiso scored his side’s first goal in the 2023 Varsity Cup. The goal separated the sides going into halftime, much to the crowd’s delight. The second half started just as the match did, with sustained UWC pressure, combined with often questionable defence from their opponents. Riyaaz Koopstadtused this to great advantage to score the equalising goal early in the second half. Both sides had their opportunities to claim the win, as the final 10 minutes of the match became a back-and-forth affair. There were no further changes to the score line however and the teams had to settle for a point each from the encounter. Scorers: 38’ 1-0 Pule Macdonald Thekiso, 54’ 1-1 Riyaaz Koopstadt. Player of the Match: Riyaaz Koopstadt (UWC) CUT: Motlalentwa Jacob Mbolekwa, Lefa Matlase, Simo Ndlovu, Khotso Mphene, Tumelo Mothabeng, Mpho Alex Ngcobo, Pule Macdonald Thekiso, Oratile Mothibedi, Pogisho Dikole, Tiisetso Mpholoana, Lehlohonolo Nkaekae. UWC: Leathan Croats, Craig Joemath, Damian Overmeyer, Jadan Zeeman, Siyabulela Mcimeli, Sandile Nomjila, Relebohile Matima, Riyaaz Koopstadt, Devon Nolan, Leandro De Sousa, Khanya Alex Dyani.

Defending champions TUT have only one goal for the 2023 Varsity Football tournament – to lift the coveted trophy once again. The TUT outfit and its Pretoria rivals UP-Tuks are the two most successful sides in the tournament since its inception in 2013, with each being crowned champions three times. Tuks are not competing this year. TUT head coach Bushy Moloi is one of the longest-serving coaches in the history of Varsity Football, being at the helm for all three of their Varsity Football triumphs. Despite the Red Army not having any home games this year, they are still confident of clinching an unprecedented fourth title, says Moloi. “The preparations are not going well due to the strike and I hope and pray to continue and do well this season. Our vibrant students, also Tshwane football lovers and supporters from our neighbours Tuks will definitely come to support us. We believe in them and they believe in us.” Moloi was not holding back about his rejuvenated technical team. “Watch the space. We are bringing back former TUT Varsity players to sit on the bench and other high-profile figures in South African football.” TUT is known for producing hot football talent in the country with the most recent being Mamelodi Sundowns’ sensation Cassius Mailula. The Red Army have also seen central midfielder Thuso Mlamla and last season’s skipper Tebogo Lekaba secure a place within the Motsepe Foundation Championship side Pretoria Callies. According to Moloi this is something well deserved. “It means a lot to our university and all stakeholders which might also unlock the potential of getting NSL status like Tuks. It is always a good challenge to us because we are preparing our players to go out and do well in our nation.” TUT 24-man squad: Goalkeepers: Gomotsegang Nkuna, Luyanda Mandindi. Defenders: Ndumiso Mdluli, Ndumiso Khubheka, Alan Moja, Fabian Nukeri, Tebogo Lekaba, Midfielders: Thuso Mlamla, Tiego Mathebe, Anda Ihleli Yamile, Freddy Mahloana, Gift Mazibuko, Katlego Kgoete, Lindokuhle Motsamai, Tshiamo Mahome, Bongani Ngobeni, Hendrick Xaba, Neo Ramphisa, Manuele Mofokeng. Forwards: Lungisani Nkosi, Phuko Boyce, Ronald Mabaso, Puseletso Rakobela. TUT kick off their campaign against UFS on Thursday 27 July at Shimla Park (19:15). by Lehlogonolo Ditshego

UFS are ready for a tough opening game of the 2023 Varsity Football when they do battle against defending champions TUT tonight at Shimla Park in Bloemfontein. Action gets underway at 19:15. Last year TUT got the better of the Free Staters twice, but this time the hosts are confident, more experienced and motivated to do well. They reached the semi-finals in 2021 and 2022 and in 2023 they want to go at least one step further this year, and the first will be to upset the champions. UFS captain and centre-back Aphiwe Zulu says it’s going to be tough but they know what to expect. “It will not be an easy game as we are playing against the defending champions and they managed to beat us twice last year. But we are ready and have been preparing well. There are no major changes in the team and we are still making use of the same philosophy. “As the captain, I do have expectations from the boys and that is firstly to win all of our home games and secondly to win the tournament.” UFS will certainly miss their star striker from the past couple of years, Sello Diphoko, who now plays in the USA. According to Zulu the marksman’s success has inspired his team to do well. “Sello Diphoko leaving the club for the USA last year did affect the team as he was definitely our key player. The coaches have tried their best to fill the void left by his departure, but it also motivates us. The [other] players are looking to get a contract overseas as well, as we've had one of our own who has managed to go and play his football abroad.” Full fixtures list HERE. Information on how to buy tickets HERE. To take part in the #IyachesaFan Social Media Competition click HERE.

With the clock starting to tick towards kickoff for the 2023 Varsity Football tournament, it is time for the top university talent to step onto the field, showcase their talents and chase their dreams. These are the players of each team to watch over the next nine weeks. UJ – Advocate Mokwena If there's one player to watch in the middle of the park for UJ this year, it has to be Advocate Mokwena. Also known as "Advo", he managed to walk away with three man of the match awards during last year’s campaign. He is pulling the strings in midfield for the Orange Army with his incredible ability to create goal-scoring opportunities as well as stability, indeed a team player and a leader both on and off the pitch. TUT – Neo Ramphisa Attacking midfielder Neo Ramphisa can certainly be regarded as the hungriest player in the TUT camp. His versatility and reading of the game is one aspect TUT will utilise in their attacking plays with his passing accuracy and speed playing an important part. The agile midfielder can further play as a supporting striker and also drop back to help in defence. NWU – Heaven Sereetsi Keep an eye out for Heaven Sereetsi, a rising star for NWU with the versatility to operate on either side of the field as an attacking winger. His exceptional football skills have earned him top awards such as Best Player in the North West ABC Motsepe league. As a pivotal player for NWU, his contributions will be vital to the team’s success in Varsity Football. UFS – Aphiwe Zulu The time to shine for Aphiwe Zulu in Varsity Football is now. The hard-working UFS defender has been installed as captain and he is sure to lead by example, being hugely instrumental in helping the side reach back-to-back semi-finals. While Zulu is rock-solid in defence, he also knows how to score goals, earning him an accolade as UFS Football's Most Valuable Player of the Year. CUT – Simo Ndlovu The player tipped to excel for CUT this season is centre back Simo Ndlovu. As part of the last line of defence, Ndlovu has one of the most important roles to fill on the park. Even more than that though, he has been given the added responsibility of leading the team in this year’s competition. Apart from being a strong defender, Ndlovu also possesses some noteworthy aerial skills. UFH – Sinobumu Kapase Lethal striker Sinobomu Kapase will be the UFH player to keep an eye on. Despite his tiny stature, he has all the skills and talent one could possibly want in a striker as well as the strength to take on strong defenders. Kapase’s work ethic is of the highest standard and he leads by example, being part of the team’s setup for the last five years. UWC - Shuaib Martin Shuab Martin brings a wealth of experience and a winning mentality to the UWC side this season, knowing exactly what is at stake. His ability to keep the rest of the team composed and steer them in the right direction this season will be the key. Martin is a classic example of the football adage – your side can be a good striking force but if their midfield isn't functioning well, there's no way you can win matches, it all starts in the middle of the park. VUT – Thabiso Moeketsi VUT is ready and rearing to go in this year’s Varsity Football tournament thanks to an intense training programme that included game preparation and in the last final days some crucial speed work. One man that is going to literally put his body on the line in the team’s lofty ambitions of reaching the semi-finals is goalkeeper Thabiso Moeketsi. His passion is without equal and he will indeed be the last man defending. 2023 fixtures HERE.

The levels of excitement in the UJ camp for the 2023 Varsity Football tournament have reached fever pitch with “the boys” eager to get out on the field and prove they are a force to be reckoned once again with over the coming weeks. This is according to captain Neo Lebopa. "We can’t wait for the tournament to start. The mood has been great in camp, and everyone is fighting really hard to make the team. This level of competitiveness keeps everyone on their toes and out of their comfort zones. Like they say, ‘iron sharpens iron’.” Lebopa says fans can expect a more competitive, more consistent, more united, more resilient and more thrilling UJ team this year. “The majority of the squad is still the same as the one from the previous campaign. I believe the coaches have also done a good job with bringing in a few new recruits and then there are some exciting youngsters from our second team. "I don’t think there’ll be much of a difference from last year, we have a specific way of playing and we look to always stick to our identity and culture here at UJ. Of course, some games may require a different approach, it depends on who we face on the day.” The Orange Army goes into this year’s competition riding a wave of success that started in 2021 when they were crowned the Varsity Football champions, the University Sport South Africa (USSA) champions in 2022 and most recently promotion to the ABC Motsepe League. Head coach Karabo Mogudi says the consistent hard work put in by the technical team has always been the biggest strength in their preparations. "It was a great achievement to be promoted to the ABC Motsepe League because we played against five regional champions in Sedibeng, Tshwane, Mogale City, Ekurhuleni and Johannesburg. This is a huge confidence boost for the boys going into the 2023 FNB Varsity Football campaign.” UJ 24-man squad: Goalkeepers: Richard Lona Banga, Tshegofatso Mathekga, Lungelo Sithole. Defenders: Karabo Modisane, Eathan Coetzee, Ngwako Ramaloko, Neo Lebopa, Thabo Moshikere, Maselesele Makoti. Midfielders: Ntokozo Mathobela, Nkgo Masehla, Advocate Mokwena, Tshepiso Dube, Kuhlula Mathebula, Mongezi Mncube, Puleng Bapela, Tumelo Molubi, Philane Masondo, Thanda Madiba. Forwards: Siphosihle Nkambule, Sanele Ndlalane, Tokoloho Vilakazi, Malik Mashinini, Trevor Nkwashu. UJ kick off their campaign against NWU Mafikeng on Thursday 27 July at the NWU Mafikeng Stadium (17:00). by Gontse Hlophe