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Varsity Football Women has become far more than a university football competition. Year after year, it continues to establish itself as one of South Africa's premier breeding grounds for future professional and national team talent with numerous players being called up to Banyana Banyana As the 2026 tournament gets underway on 1 August, another exciting group of student-athletes will have the opportunity to showcase their abilities on one of the country's biggest university football stages. From prolific goalscorers and creative playmakers to commanding defenders and emerging stars, these are the players we believe could define this year's tournament and take the next step in their football careers. Aliyaah Allie (Wits): Keep an eye on the Wits midfielder who was instrumental in their campaign last season. She will no doubt be playing a big role if Wits are to go far this year. She represented South Africa at U17 and U20 level and also signed for Scottish Premier league side Glasgow City. Thabiso Senyatsi (TUT): Voted the FNB Overall Player of the Tournament last year, Thabiso Senyatsi is no doubt gonna be instrumental if the Red Army are going to lift the trophy for a remarkable 7th time.] All eyes will be on her to repeat her heroic efforts in 2025. Fiona Namanyana (UL): The University of Limpopo captain is a technically gifted attacking midfielder playing at a high level for Copperbelt Ladies and recently earning national recognition with Banyana Banyana. She brings creativity, composure, and attacking intelligence in the final third, making her a constant threat going forward. Ibanathi Msindo (TUKS): The Stripe Generation midfielder has the confidence and ability to score stunning goals in the upcoming Varsity Football Women's tournament and she will be on home ground for the opening rounds at Tuks on 1 and 2 August. Sbongakonke Mzobe (UJ): The UJ skipper will be looking to lead the troops all the way to lifting the trophy after they finished runners-up last season. She will no doubt be a key part if they do. She lists Thiaga Alcantara as a football hero she admires. Chelsea Daniels (UWC): Defending champions UWC have a stacked line-up including Chelsea Daniels who has featured prominently in their last three title winning campaigns. She has previously been called up to represent South Africa's national youth setup (Bantwana) and been nominated for the FNB Player of the Tournament in previous Varsity Football seasons. Liyema Tom (CPUT): Part of last years squad, Liyema is recognized by the team as strong in the tackle, composed under pressure, and a key component of their defensive backline. Okuhle Mrhulwa (WSU): Leading the Walter Sisulu team onto the national stage will be captain Okuhle "Hotto" Mrulwa, who will play an important role throughout the campaign. Fans should also keep an eye on midfielder Lilitha Mjungula, who is expected to be one of WSU's standout performers during the tournament. The Varsity Football Women's tournament kicks-off on the 1 August with a bumper weekend at Pretoria university. Fixtures: HERE  Tickets: HERE

Varsity Football Women’s record champions TUT Women Football embark on yet another journey of chasing their seventh title. In what promises to be an exciting season of blockbusters, the Pretoria West side head into the season in a new shape and leadership. Professor Ntwanano Kubayi takes over the reigns as the head coach of TUT Women’ team from Christina Kutumela. “My appointment was made when our former head coach [Christina Kutumela] was unable to continue this year because of personal reasons. Given that I have been working as technical director for the ladies’ team, the TUT football office asked me to step in to take over as the head coach. I am enjoying the role as I am so passionate about coaching, teaching and nurturing players.” said newly appointed head coach Prof Kubayi. Kubayi won the 2018 Varsity Football title with TUT as an assistant coach and performance analyst and believes that the team he is heading now can lift TUT’s seventh title. “The aim is to perform better than last season. TUT is the Home of champions; we have won the Varsity Football six times and we would like to add a seventh star as we last won it in 2019. The players have been working hard in training. We are working on our physical conditioning, mental strength and tactical organisation.” Kubayi’s troops open their campaign against UJ in a repeat of last year’s semi-final. Prof Kubayi alludes the newcomers in the squad pose TUT as underdogs that can surprise several teams this season. “The team has new recruits from several teams, like Durban Ladies, Super Strikers FC and the SAFA Academy to name a few. The game will not be easy because TUT is the underdog, having fallen to UJ in the Varsity Football and USSA final last year. Coach Dunga is one of South Africa’s top female coaches with a deep understanding of the game", concluded Kubayi. TUT Womens Provisional Squad Ayanda Mazibuko, Andiswa Jele, Gugu Mabitsela, Khutso Mogano, Lesedi Mokoena, Mpho Ogotseng, Nicole Mohlala, Noxolo Ngobe, Nonzuzo Buthelezi, Lindiwe Nkambule, Kelebogile Mfati, Mbali Ndlovu, Nombuso Malesa, Mokgaetji Ramanna, Thabiso Senyatsi, Palesa Ntsholo, Shifaa Hossen, Sibongile Ntoane, Rebaona Tshoma, Rebaone Moreki, Samukelisiwe Thwala, Tshephang Mosehla, Karabo Mohajane, Nkateko Nkhuna. Fixtures: HERE  Tickets: HERE By: Lehlogonolo Ditshego

The University of Limpopo (UL) Women Football are confident and upbeat heading into their 2026 Varsity Football Women campaign. This season, the team has a clear objective, which is to reach the semifinals and prove they belong among the country’s best after qualifying for the tournament for the first time since 2018. The focus for UL this year is certainly on it being a team effort and they want to compete in every game as a collective, as opposed to banking on one or two star players. UL coach Tlou Jomo Mabotja feels that leading into the tournament there is a positive vibe in the camp and their goal is to ensure the team learns and improves without undue pressure. “We want to compete in every game and fight for a place in the semifinals. We’re not putting pressure on the players to win the tournament. We want them to learn, grow and enjoy the challenge. If we keep improving, the results will come,” said Mabotja. Regarding preparation, Mabotja says the emphasis has been on physical conditioning, technical development, and tactical understanding. “Physical conditioning is the foundation. We have been working on our technical ability and our tactical approach, which is to be aggressive from the start, maintain team discipline and create as many box entries as possible,” he said. Mabotja stressed that preparations have not been easy, with academic schedules causing stop-start availability and requiring late evening training sessions to accommodate most players. With a united squad, a clear game plan and the support of the university community behind them, the UL Ladies are determined to make this Varsity Football season one to remember. UL will kick off their campaign against CPUT Women on Saturday, 1 August, at the Tuks B Field, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00. UL Women Provisional Squad: Duduzile Cynthia Mkhonto, Mmamonyana Selloe, Keletso Rakgate, Lungile Mlotshwa, Surprise Madigage, Pitsi Bochabelo Ramasenya, Lisbon Forgive Phakula, Tshepang Shalate Manganye, Kgothatso Segabetla, Bridgette Mahlare, Welcome Ngakwane Maphanga, Mahlatse Mafa, Queen Sithole, Melita Dikeledi Matsee, Mangoako Keetsi, Nicole Makhubela, Melida Sekuba, Fiona Namanyana, Refile Mphela, Boitswarelo Kgobe, Bonolo Mashego, Tebogo Patience Maluleke, Atlegang Sebothoma, Mokgoba Rameetse. Fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE By: Lebogang Mathaba

The University of Johannesburg head into the 2026 Varsity Football Women carrying the weight of expectation after falling agonisingly short of the title in the previous edition. Following a runners-up finish, the Orange Army are determined to go one step further this season, with their sights firmly set on ending a five-year wait for Varsity Football glory and bringing the coveted trophy back to Johannesburg. For coach Nthabeleng “Dunga” Modiko and her squad, the sting of last year's final against UWC remains fresh, serving as powerful motivation rather than a distraction. “We are proud of the history we have built in this competition, but our focus is firmly on the opportunity ahead,” says Modiko. “This group has worked exceptionally hard and is determined to represent the University of Johannesburg with pride, passion, and excellence.” UJ’s path through the 2025 campaign was nothing short of dominance until the final whistle. The team performed exceptionally well, scoring 13 goals across four matches without conceding a single goal prior to the final. They opened their campaign with a 4-0 win over the North-West University, followed by a 2-0 victory against Wits University and another 4-0 win against Cape Peninsula University of Technology. In the semifinal, UJ clinched a 3-0 win against Gauteng rivals Tshwane University of Technology. Despite their clinical performances, their campaign ended in heartbreak at a packed UJ Soweto Stadium, where they narrowly fell 1-0 to UWC. However, Modiko remains confident that her side has addressed those critical moments and is fully equipped to turn past shortcomings into 2026 victory. To go one step further this season, the Orange Army will rely on a potent mix of proven match-winners and exciting new talent. “Varsity Football is a valuable platform to showcase the quality of football at UJ and across South African universities. We look forward to seeing our supporters rally behind the Orange Army as we pursue our goal: bringing the trophy back to Johannesburg,” said Modiko. UJ Women’s Football Provisional Squad: Matshidiso Masebe, Unathi Mahlindza, Sindy Sebashe, Nokuthula Sekhukhuni, Angela Mtshweni, Ntsandeni Munasi, Thato Mokalake, Kutlwano Maphane, Anele Sosibo, Akia Pewah, Kabelo Mokoena, Itumeleng Maqeleqele, Sthembile Sandleni, Nhlakanipho Moyo, Sthembile Msomi, Amukelani Masonganyi, Sbongakonke Mzobe, Lindelwa Mabuza, Kamogelo Maponya, Ayanda Mnyembane, Rhulani Ndlovu, Malitsatsi Mosala, Kusaselihle Shibase, Mpho Dlamini. Fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE By: Collen Maepa

CPUT Women Football are eager to make a positive start to their Varsity Football 2026 campaign when they take on the University of Limpopo (UL) Women at Tuks Stadium, University of Pretoria, on Saturday. The Cape side enters the tournament in high spirits after a productive pre-season, with head coach Sibongiseni Khamlana expressing confidence in his squad's preparations ahead of the highly anticipated competition. "Our preparation has gone really well. The players have shown great commitment throughout the training period, and we’ve worked hard on improving both our physical conditioning and tactical awareness. Our main focus has been building consistency, strengthening our teamwork, and ensuring that everyone understands their role within the squad. We’re confident that the work we’ve put in will put us in a strong position heading into the tournament,” she said. Khamlana believes CPUT has assembled a balanced squad capable of competing against the country's top university teams. "We’ve welcomed some exciting new players who have settled into the squad quickly and brought fresh energy to the team. At the same time, our returning players provide valuable experience and leadership. Rather than relying on individuals, we believe our biggest strength is the collective effort of the entire squad, and we’re excited to see everyone contribute throughout the tournament,” said Khamlana. The coach is under no illusion about the challenge that lies ahead but is optimistic about what his players can achieve. "Our expectation is to be competitive in every match and represent CPUT with pride. We know the standard of the competition is high, but we believe we have the quality to challenge any team. A successful campaign would be one where we perform to our full potential, continue improving with every game, and put ourselves in contention for the latter stages of the tournament." She also acknowledged the intensity of the competition and the importance of maintaining consistency throughout the tournament. "The biggest challenge will be maintaining consistency against strong opposition in a demanding tournament. Every team will be motivated to perform, so there will be no easy matches. We’ll overcome this by staying disciplined, sticking to our game plan, supporting one another on and off the field, and taking each match one step at a time." CPUT Provisional Squad: Thandiswa Gwenteshe, Amanda Poti, Anebhongo Solani, Lisakhanya Ntozini, Atupele Schoeman, Rhulani Sibongile Mthethwa, Sibahle Mlamla, Boethatelo Moreki, Qubimpi Ntombizonke, Zilungile Mathiya, Zozibini Jim, Nozicelo Mandla, Aseko Nqodi, Mosetsanagape Leepile, Sinothile Makhanya, Snothando Mangaliso, Liyema Tom, Kiyhana Daniels, Ziyanda Raraza, Bontle Mkhangwana, Sinelisiwe Phumlomo, Yandiswa Ndlangamandla. Fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE

South Africa's premier university football competition returns with an exciting new look as Varsity Football 2026 gets underway in August. The women's tournament kicks-off on 1 August and will be contested over two bumper weekends before attention shifts to the men's competition, which runs from 7 August to 2 October. This season introduces one of the biggest changes in the tournament's history with Varsity Football moving to Friday nights for the men's competition. For the first time, supporters can kick start their weekends by enjoying the country's best university football under the lights with selected matches broadcast live on SuperSport. Siya Noqayi, Varsity Football Code Manager, believes the continued growth of the competition reflects the increasing quality and competitiveness of university football in South Africa: "Every season Varsity Football continues to raise the standard both on and off the field. We are excited to introduce Friday night football this year where we won’t just be hosting a football tournament…we will be creating a movement. With the women's tournament expanding its footprint and the men's competition welcoming new teams alongside the return of familiar rivals, we are looking forward to another unforgettable season that celebrates talent, opportunity and the passion of football". The women's tournament will once again showcase the country's top student footballers, with WSU, Wits, UL, CPUT, TUT, UJ, UP Tuks and three time champions UWC competing for the title over two action packed weekends. Reflecting on the achievement, UWC Head Coach Thinasonke Mbuli described securing a third consecutive title as a moment that surpassed even their first championship: "It was an amazing feeling. We were extremely excited. Winning it for the first time is special, but winning it three times in a row is indescribable," said Mbuli. Looking ahead she believes the team's success story is far from over, with a new generation ready to make its mark: "Fans can expect to see new, young talent, players who have the potential to write their own history." UWC will be aiming to secure a fourth straight Varsity Football women's title, while the rest of the field will be determined to stop the Cape side from extending its dominance. The men's competition promises another fiercely contested campaign with current champions UFS returning to defend the title they claimed in memorable fashion last season beating TUT 5-4 on penalties. Joining the men’s competition this year is the University of Limpopo, while UWC makes a welcome return after missing out on last year's tournament. NWU and CUT missed out on qualification, underlining the increasingly competitive nature of Varsity Football. UFS head coach Mokete Tsotetsi says last year's triumph has only strengthened the squad's desire to defend its crown: "Lifting the trophy last year was an unforgettable feeling of pride and joy. It meant everything to the players because we understood how much hard work, sacrifice and commitment had gone into achieving that moment. We felt we weren't just winning for ourselves but for everyone who supported and believed in us. For the university it created a real sense of pride and unity across the entire community." Despite a number of new faces in the squad, Tsotetsi is confident supporters will recognise the identity that brought UFS success: "Fans can expect a team that plays with purpose, confidence and determination. Although we've lost some key players through graduation, the values that define this team remain the same. Hard work, discipline, commitment and a relentless desire to retain the title will continue to drive us throughout the season." Alongside the football action, fans can once again look forward to the #IyachesaFAN Challenge, exciting matchday activations and unforgettable campus atmospheres. Tournament partners FNB, Suzuki and SportPesa continue to support the growth of university football and the development of student athletes across South Africa. With Friday night football, two blockbuster tournaments and the country's best university talent ready to shine, Varsity Football 2026 promises another #Iyachesa season. Opening womens fixtures on 1 August hosted at the University of Pretoria. · WSU vs Wits – 1pm · UL vs CPU – 3pm · TUT vs UJ – 5pm · Tuks vs UWC – 7pm Opening men’s fixtures on 7 August: · UFS vs Tuks – 5pm at Shimla Park · UJ vs TUT – 7.15pm at UJ Soweto Stadium · UWC vs Wits – 6.30pm at UWC Stadium · UL vs DUT – 6.30pm at Oscar Mpetha Stadium See all the fixtures HERE. Tickets HERE.

The Wits Women's Football team is geared up for what promises to be an exciting Varsity Football 2026 campaign, which kicks off on 1 August, with a talented blend of experienced campaigners and exciting young stars ready to make their mark. The Educated Footballers made the semifinals in last year’s edition, where they were knocked out by eventual winners, UWC by 1-0. This year, with minutes under the players’ belts from the recently concluded Engen Knockout Challenge and the ongoing SAFA Women’s Provincial League, players are match fit and ready to go. “Most of the players who will be playing in the Varsity Diski are currently playing for SAFA. We were disturbed by the study break because students had to go home, and they only came back last week,” said coach Siphesihle Ngalmane. “But so far, so good. I think we are looking better. With the two bumpers, I believe they will work to our advantage to try and improve the team and also improve our stats from last year.” With the squad like last year, a small number will miss out due to injuries. However, there are several players fans can still look forward to this season. This includes current Kaizer Chiefs player Matobane Moshugi who is doing her first year at the university. “Nwabisa Qoba from UWC is here at Wits,” he said. “Also Mmathapelo Tau who plays on the left wing, we can also look forward to Thina Nogcantsi and Aliyaah Allie who will bring the Hollywoodbets experience.” Wits will open the weekend with a fixture against WSU Women’s Football at 13:00, hosted at Tuks Stadium. Wits Provisional Squad: Goalkeepers: Ngozichukwu Nwafor, Matsie Bridgette Moekwa, Nthabiseng Ramaisa Defenders: Amogelang Rachelapa, Thalente Ntamane, Thalente Ntshiza, Lusanda Nyathi, Beyonce van Wyk, Buhle Olwethu Mdyesha, Tshepang Phatswane, Siphesihle Maselane Midfielders: Elona Ncumeza, Nwabisa Qoba, Primrose Kopeka, Matobane Moshugi, Aliyaah Allie, Boitumelo Nelly Tebele, Molatelo Mothiba, Nokubonga Msimango, Lenees Wattie. Forwards: Imaan Parker, Thina Nogcantsi, Mmathapelo Tau, Masego Senoedi Fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE By: Khomotso Makgabutlane

The 2025 Varsity Football Women's tournament delivered everything supporters have come to expect from South Africa's premier university football competition. There were dominant performances, dramatic derby encounters, breakout stars, record scorelines and a historic championship as UWC secured a third consecutive Varsity Football Women's title. Here's how it played out in last year's tournament. Defending champions lay down an early marker: Defending champions UWC began their title defence with a hard fought 2 to 1 victory over TUT in one of the standout fixtures of the opening round. Chelsea Daniels produced the decisive moment with a superb long range strike to secure all three points. Elsewhere, UJ announced themselves as genuine title contenders with an emphatic 4 to 0 victory over NWU. Thato Mofolo stole the headlines with a superb hat trick as the Orange Army controlled proceedings from start to finish. UWC make history with a ten goal masterclass: Round two produced one of the most remarkable performances in Varsity Football Women's history. UWC dismantled UNIVEN 10 to 0 in a ruthless attacking display that sent a clear warning to the rest of the competition. Captain Tiffany Kortjie and Chelsea Daniels each recorded hat tricks. The Johannesburg derby also lived up to expectations as UJ defeated Wits 2 to 0. After a goalless first half, Gugulethu Dlamini finally broke the deadlock before tournament top scorer Thato Mofolo sealed another important victory. The Tshwane derby between TUT and UP Tuks ended honours even after a weather interruption caused by lightning, while NWU bounced back from their opening defeat to beat CPUT 2 to 1. The playoffs delivered high drama: With places in the championship match at stake, the intensity increased dramatically during the semi-finals. UWC booked their place in yet another final after grinding out a disciplined 1 to 0 victory over Wits. UJ ensured the final would feature a classic North versus South showdown after producing an excellent 3 to 0 victory over TUT. Thato Mofolo continued her outstanding campaign by opening the scoring before goals from Sthembile Msomi and Shannon Macomo completed a convincing semifinal victory and secured revenge for the previous year's elimination. UWC complete the treble: The championship decider brought together two of the tournament's outstanding teams as defending champions UWC faced hosts UJ before a packed crowd at UJ Soweto Stadium. Just moments after halftime, captain Tiffany Kortjie produced the defining moment of the season. Her 46th minute strike proved enough to separate the two sides and secure a narrow 1 to 0 victory, handing UWC an unprecedented third consecutive Varsity Football Women's championship. Varsity Footbalkl Women 2025 Final: UJ vs UWC 2025 Award Winners: FNB Player of the Tournament Thabiso Senyatsi (TUT) Suzuki Golden Boot Thato Mofolo (UJ) Cashbuild Golden Glove Manana Myeki (UJ) With another memorable season now in the history books, attention turns to the 2026 Varsity Football Women's tournament, which promises an exciting new chapter for university football. The competition kicks off on 1 August and will be contested over two bumper weekends before the final on 19 August. Opening womens fixtures on 1 August hosted at the University of Pretoria. · WSU vs Wits – 1pm · UL vs CPU – 3pm · TUT vs UJ – 5pm · Tuks vs UWC – 7pm See all the fixtures HERE. Tickets HERE.

Varsity Esports is back for its second year, doubling down on its mission to build a sustainable, grassroots esports ecosystem for South African students, and to create a clear pathway for those who want to take gaming seriously as a career. After a successful inaugural season, Varsity Esports 2026 launches with renewed momentum, expanded campus activations, and a major milestone. Split 1 Finals will be hosted on campus at Stellenbosch University from Saturday 16 May until Sunday 17 May, bringing competitive esports directly into the heart of student life. The league continues to focus on accessibility and enjoyment at grassroots level, while also providing structure, exposure, and progression opportunities for students aiming to compete professionally or enter the broader gaming and esports industry.   Backed by leading brands Varsity Esports 2026 is proudly supported by a strong mix of returning and new sponsors: FNB  (returning sponsor) Citroën  (new sponsor) Nivea   Men  (new sponsor) Red Bull  (returning sponsor)   Their involvement underscores growing confidence in varsity esports as a credible development pipeline for young talent and a meaningful engagement platform for brands.   Game titles for Split 1 Students will compete across three major titles: ·       Valorant ·       Rocket League ·       EA Sports FC 26   Key dates Split 1 ·       Announcement: 16 February ·       Registrations: 16 – 27 February ·       Online Group Stages: 9 March – 30 April ·       Split 1 Finals: 16 – 17 May (Stellenbosch University)   Building more than a tournament Now in its second year, Varsity Esports is focused on scale and depth; expanding campus-level engagement, strengthening university esports structures, and ensuring students can participate whether they’re playing for fun or pursuing a long-term competitive path.   Barry Louzada , Managing Director at Mettlestate, says: “Varsity Esports was never about parachuting in a flashy tournament. It’s about building something that students can belong to. Year one proved there’s real appetite and real talent on campus. Year two is about going deeper, more universities, more on-campus presence, and clearer pathways for players who want to take this seriously. If we want a future-proof esports industry, this is where it starts.” Marnus van Huyssteen , Head of Division at ASEM, emphasized that the momentum behind university esports has never been stronger, setting the stage for the exciting announcement: “Building on the incredible success of the 2025 Varsity Esports season, we are thrilled to welcome new sponsors Nivea and Citroën in 2026 as we continue to grow this exciting platform. Varsity Esports is more than a competition - It’s about creating opportunities for young student gamers to showcase their talent, while further developing esport in South Africa. As part of the Varsity Sports platform, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of players and ensuring that everything we do remains centered on them. Esport is growing in popularity in South Africa, and we’re excited to play a part in the development of the sport.” FNB says its investment in varsity level gaming is part of a broader effort to nurture early passion and turning it into meaningful future opportunities for young people. “We know that big things often start small, and Varsity Esports is a great example of how passion at grassroots level can grow into real opportunity. We’re excited to keep backing students as they build skills, confidence and future careers in a rapidly evolving space. This is how we help the next generation to thrive, by showing up in places and passions that matter most to them,”  says FNB Sponsorship Lead  Brad Guymer . Introducing the partnership, Mmathapelo Khumalo , Citroën Brand Head, emphasized the shared vision behind supporting the tournament: “Varsity Esports continues to grow as a platform that celebrates innovation, creativity and the ambition of students across South Africa. This spirit of pushing boundaries aligns perfectly with Citroën’s vision of mobility that is For Everyone, Like No One. As the tournament evolves, we’re proud to support a new generation who are redefining how they connect, compete and express themselves, boldly, confidently and in their own distinctive way”. With that being said, the path ahead for student esports has never been more promising. How to get involved ·       Visit varsityesports.co.za to register. ·       Follow Varsity Esports on Instagram . ·       Speak to your university’s esports manager.

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

UPDATE: Voting for the FNB Player of the Tournament has closed as of 9am on 1 October. Winner will be announced after the final on Thursday 2 October. The 2025 Varsity Football season has been nothing short of dramatic with last-minute winners and top quality diski that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Now after weeks of intensity all eyes turn to the final where UFS and TUT will battle it out on Thursday, 2 October at Shimla Park in Bloemfontein where a new champion will be crowned. But before we discover who lifts the trophy, it’s time to celebrate the stars who have stood out across the competition. Fans now have the chance to vote for the FNB Player of the Tournament 2025 with the winner taking home a big cash prize from FNB and driving away in a Hertz-sponsored car for a year.  How the nominees were chosen Each of the eight head coaches across the competition nominated three players who impressed them the most. Coaches were not allowed to put forward players from their own squads. Nominations were weighted: 1st = 3 points, 2nd = 2 points, 3rd = 1 point. After tallying the totals, the three players with the highest scores made the final shortlist. Here are the nominees for 2025 as chosen by the coaches: UPDATE: Voting for the FNB Player of the Tournament has closed as of 9am on 1 October. Winner will be announced after the final on Thursday 2 October. Now it’s over to the public. Your votes will decide who earns the title of Varsity Football’s top performer for 2025. The public can cast their votes until Wednesday, 1 October at 9am. The winner will be the player with the most votes at the deadline and will be announced after the final on Thursday 29 October. Vote for your winner below. UPDATE: Voting for the FNB Player of the Tournament has closed as of 9am on 1 October. Winner will be announced after the final on Thursday 2 October. Omphemetse Athibeng (UFS): A stalwart of the Kovsies side Omphemetse is definitely a player to keep an eye on. An unassuming figure on the field until he touches the ball and his talent becomes apparent. He has speed, he has skill, power, and the finesse of a quality player. His cracking goal was the difference against DUT and he was rightly named as the FNB Player of the Match.    Aphelele Sibisi (NWU): The Eagles captain had a brilliant season and picked up several FNB Player of the Match award. As a leader, Sibisi is known not only for his defensive skills but also for lifting the team’s morale. His teammates often rely on his drive to keep them motivated during tough phases of a match. “I have a personal need to show how far I can go, that starts with giving everything for this team.” Jarome Jansen (UFS): The UFS star has played an instrumental role in helping the Kovsies securing their first ever Varsity Football final. His skill is undeniable and the Bachelor of Administration student has been playing football since childhood, excelling in attacking roles. Inspired by Themba Zwane’s humility, he dreams of turning professional while balancing his studies. The final takes place on Thursday the 2 October.

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