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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

The hottest university football tournament is back with a bang with the 2023 Varsity Football tournament set to kickoff on 27 July. Fans can once again look forward to an action-packed competition that not only entertains and excites but is also a stepping stone to greatness in the most-watched sport on the planet. Since the first tournament in 2013, Varsity Football has gone from strength to strength with the clear message to players that it is all about chasing their dreams, reaching their full potential and leaving it all on the field. Lisa Roux, head of Varsity Sports, says the endless possibilities that come with playing in the tournament and the impact it has had on the players’ lives, have been phenomenal. “Varsity Football is where future football stars are born and where they showcase their skills. It's where the field of dreams becomes a reality and where lives are transformed. This season, Varsity Football will once again be more than just another tournament, it will be a cultural phenomenon and one that you can’t afford to miss out on. We're talking about the vibe, the people, and the endless opportunities that define Varsity Football.” This year, UJ, TUT, NWU, VUT, UFS, CUT, UFH and UWC will take each other on over seven rounds between 27 July and 7 September. The semi-finals against the top four teams are scheduled for 14 September while the final will be contested on 28 September. All matches take place on Thursday with featured games broadcast live on SuperSport. The 2023 Varsity Football Women’s tournament will take place between 11 and 19 August. UFH, UKZN, UP, Wits, UJ, UWC, DUT and TUT are vying for top honours. TUT beat UJ 2-1 in last year’s men’s final and will undoubtedly be out to claim an unprecedented fourth Varsity Football title. The Pretoria-based team were the champions in 2016 and 2018 and also made it to the final in 2015, 2017 and 2019. Apart from the football action, fans can also look forward to the #IyachesaFAN challenge at games and on social media, as well as some great exciting promotions from main sponsor FNB. Suzuki and new sponsor Cashbuild have also thrown their weight behind the foremost university football competition in South Africa. The opening round of the 2023 Varsity Football tournament on 27 July will see the following action: NWU vs UJ (17:00) - NWU Mafikeng Stadium UFS vs TUT (19:15) - Shimla Park UFH vs VUT (15:00) - Davidson Stadium CUT vs UWC (18:30) - CUT Stadium For all the 2023 fixtures click HERE. For tickets click HERE.

UFS are confident and upbeat heading into their 2023 Varsity Football campaign. This year the Blues have a clear objective, and that is to win the tournament for the first time after coming so close the past two years, only to fall short in the semi-finals. In addition, the well-established outfit are excited at the prospect of playing in a Bloemfontein derby for the first time with the inclusion of CUT. The focus for the Blues this year is certainly on it being a team effort and they want to win the tournament as a collective, as opposed to banking on one of two star players. That said, captain Aphiwe Zulu will most definitely be the player to keep an eye on this season. UFS coach Tebogo Motsamai feels that leading into the tournament there is a positive vibe in the camp and their goal is to ensure the title comes to the Free State. “We have a few players in the squad that were around last year. “That attitude and the mood in the camp is very good. The guys have been training well and, in the friendlies we have played so far, they have managed to come out on top and they are trying their level best. “With the Varsity Football this year, we want to win it. We want the title in Bloemfontein.” Regarding the derby fixture in round 7, Motsamai says it is something that they and the fans are excited about and the match itself will be for the people of the city who are starved of top-flight football. “The CUT derby I think will be for the people of Bloemfontein and the Free State. There are no Premier Soccer League teams here and I think the football fans cannot wait to see us in action. “The students and supporters are all happy about the derby, but they are also just excited for our first game.” UFS 24-man squad: Goalkeepers: Thembekile Mhlathi, Tisetso Seodinyane, Makhanya Lethokuhle. Defenders: Aphiwe Zulu, Thato Skhosana, Itumeleng Louw, Bongani Ndimande, Lizwi Kunene, James Mhlanga, Thandolwethu Khoza, Obakeng Seekoei, Iviwe Dyabuza. Midfielders: Jerome Jansen, Ethan Goldstone, Sabelo Mthembu, Reatlehile Meya, Tyson-Wright Phiri, Eon Pieterse, Arlonso Diedricks. Forwards: Thato Nkhatho, Omphemetse Athibeng, Boy Rantsoti, Jermein Marou, Sambulo Sithole. UFS kick off their campaign against defending champions TUT on Thursday 27 July at Shimla Park (18:30).

After five years of struggle, UFH are finally back in the top flight with their return to the 2023 Varsity Football tournament. The university last participated in this competition in 2017. They failed to win any of their seven games, and in 630 minutes of play, they only managed two goals. This year it is a rejuvenated Fort Hare team that will take to the field, with the entire squad, including all players as well as the coaches making their debut season. One may argue that UFH lack the necessary Varsity Football experience to compete in the competition. However, based on what have been seen in their preparations, these individuals have the passion, ambition and football brains to deliver positive outcomes for the UFH family. Mongile Nyosana, head coach of the UFH, believes his team is properly prepared for their debut game against VUT. “We've been training for five weeks, and the players are physically and mentally prepared, the team spirit is strong, and the players are eager to play. “We played against VUT in the USSA tournament last year and have identified some areas where they are deficient, and obviously we are hoping to expose them in those areas only if our players execute the tactical plan properly. Although we are optimistic, the hurdles we may face in our game against VUT include stage fright, enthusiasm for the exposure, and inexperience, given that we are the underdogs in this competition.” UFH captain Bonke Nxiwa echoes his head coach's thoughts, adding that their friendly games against Chippa United and various ABC Motsepe teams have helped them build confidence ahead of their first game against VUT. UFH 24-man squad: Goalkeepers: Lihle Vathu, Ngcwalisa Ngamani, Nkosiyethu Ngobe. Defenders: Asanda Nayo, Athenkosi Dobe, Athenkosi Masiza, Bonke Nxiwa, Bungane Mbeko, Athenkosi Jezi, Snethemba Sibeko, Lubabalo Dayimani, Someleze Kapteni, Yamkela Mthembu. Midfielders: Chuma Mhlonyane, Gcuku Bubele, Lonwabo Booi, Oko Filtane, Mandla Lengisi, Thandile Langa, Thabani Mqambeli. Forwards: Lehlonono Thuledi, Samkelo Tshazi, Sihle Mathumbu, Sinobom Kapase. UFH kick off their campaign against VUT on Thursday 27 July at the Davidson Stadium (18:30). by Thembela Tangana

Despite only three previous appearances in Varsity Football and the results being less than stellar, VUT are backing themselves to qualify for the semi-finals of the 2023 tournament. The team first participated in Varsity Football in 2015, finishing sixth on the log with two wins, one draw and four defeats. It must be said though that one of the victories was over defending champions TUT (3-0). In 2021 VUT occupied the seventh spot with two wins, two draws and three losses. Last year there were two wins, one draw and four losses. A run of good results outside of Varsity Football the last couple of years has however shown what VUT are capable of. The team managed a respectable 3-all draw against the Orlando Pirates reserve league team in 2021. In 2020 fourth-tier VUT came out of nowhere and caused a shock upset in the first round of the Nedbank Cup when they knocked PSL side Golden Arrows out. VUT head coach Thabang Makhanya says they are ready for whatever the 2023 season throw at them. “Our preparations have been well balanced, from intense training to game preparation. We will be finishing with some speed work and then I think all will be well. The goal this year is to reach the semis, and I believe it is achievable.” Assistant coach Pakiso Ttjotjo echoes Makhanya. “We are looking forward to this year's tournament and doing better than the previous editions of Varsity Football. Our main target is to make the semis, and from there, anything is possible in the game of football.” VUT 24-man squad: Goalkeepers: Thabiso Moeketsi, Tebobo Mosia. Defenders: Thapelo Mphore, Roger Modiba, Perseverance Mashabane, Kgotso Nhlapho, Thokolo Medupi, Katlego Ramohloa. Midfielders: Simamkelo Masiza, Kgabo Ngoepe, Sizwe Sibeko, Siyabonga Nombewn, Lucky Raphala, Robert Sekhaolelo, Ntokozo Mgidi. Forwards: Jabulane Mazibuko, Sibusiso Motsepa, Karabo Maghashalala, Tebogo Gasenewe, Sibusiso Baloyi, Kgomoeswana Kgahlisho, Ndzalama Whati, Singo Thabiso, Karabo Ntuli. VUT kick off their campaign against UFH on Thursday 27 July at the Davidson Stadium (15:00).

The struggles of CUT to assemble a competitive squad for the 2023 Varsity Football tournament are not deterring them from the lofty goal of reaching the semi-finals. They have had a torrid time in putting together a squad as a great number of players didn’t meet the credit requirements to be able to compete. This has however not dampened the spirits of what is essentially the new boys on the block heading into this year’s competition and they are determined to make their tertiary institution in Bloemfontein and indeed also the whole of the Free State proud. CUT reached the semi-finals in their debut Varsity Football season in 2016 and repeated the feat a year later. CUT coach Benny Rakometsi concedes they have had their challenges in preparing for their campaign. However, he is adamant his team will give it their all as they want to make use of this golden opportunity to measure themselves against the very best. “Most of our players we had been preparing with didn’t meet the 60 credit requirement [to participate in the tournament], so we are going to be playing with a new team altogether. It is going to be tough, but we are ready to give it our best in each and every game. “Our target for the season is to make sure that we at least qualify for the semi-finals. We know that we are going to be up against the very best universities, but we will try our best.” CUT will get to play in a historic derby against UFS towards the backend of the round-robins, and Ramoketsi says they are looking forward to the encounter. “We are going to play in a derby, with CUT up against UFS, and I think this is definitely going to be very exciting.” CUT 24-man squad: Goalkeepers: Xolane Valashiya, Badlezane Athenkosi. Defenders: Simo Ndlovu, Khotso Mphene, Pogiso Dikole, Phumo Lehakoe, Kabelo Mofokeng, Keletso Khumalo, Iefa Motlatsi, Midfielders: Tumelo Mothabeng, Mpho Bartman, Mzemele Siyabonga, Edward Tshabalala, Matala Malefetsane, Karabo Monyane, Ngcobo Mpho. Forwards: Oratile Mothibedi, Lehlohonolo Nkaekae, Tisetso Mpholoana, Mbonisani Ngwenya, Pule Thekiso, Jaden Bontes, CUT gets their campaign underway on Thursday 27 July against UWC at CUT Park (18:30).