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For many years Varsity Football played a huge role in breeding South Africa’s next football stars. TUT Men’s Football has enjoyed the bragging rights having produced players like Cassius Mailula now plying his trade in Europe. As the 2025 season heads into the playoffs, for TUT debutant Glen Mashimbye it has been a season to remember. His journey with TUT began in the ABC Motsepe League where first donned the TUT jersey. The Red Army recruit in reminisces his debut in the Varsity Football. “My debut was unreal, for me it was a proud and an emotional moment running in the pitch wearing the TUT jersey for the first time. The weight of representing the institution, it was a dream come true,” said Mashimbye. “My goal is to help the team to as far as winning the tournament, personally I want to leave a mark in contributing with goals and assists and gain experience as much as I can to play in this level and higher.” The versatile midfielder used to watch his cousin play football in primary and that fuelled the hunger in wanting to make a career out of football. “I grew up in a very supportive family, they did not have much, but they gave all their support and everything they could. Football has always been around me, in the streets, at school and in the community, it taught me discipline and gave me a sense of direction early on,” he said. “I think I was five-years old, that’s when I fell in love with football. I used to watch my older cousin play and from there I never looked back it has always been more than just football for me.  “I want to make it professionally whether in locally or abroad. I work hard every day to develop my game and hopefully get an opportunity to play at the highest level. I look up to Thabiso Lebitso (Orlando Pirates defender), his work rate and humanity and work ethic inspire me.”   Fixtures:  HERE     Tickets:  HERE.   By: Lehlogonolo Ditshego

Defending champions UFS Kovsies beat Maties while NWU brushed aside UJ in the semi-finals to set up an exciting showdown in the Varsity Netball 2025 final. It will take place on Monday 29 September in Bloemfontein (19:00). The last time the two sides met in the final was in 2013 when Kovsies beat the Eagles by four goals. NWU last won the title in 2016 while Kovsies will be looking to add a sixth trophy to their collection.     NWU 55 – UJ 28   NWU put any hopes of UJ for a third consecutive appearance in the final to rest with a commanding semi-final victory in the NWU Mafikeng Great Hall in Mahikeng.   From the first whistle, the Eagles asserted themselves with strong defence and quick transitions onto attack. Their intensity forced UJ to work hard for every opportunity, while the home team  converted their opportunities with ease. This took them to a 14-6 lead at the end of the first quarter.   The second quarter followed a similar pattern. The Orange Army battled to turn their possession into goals, while NWU continued to punish mistakes. With their defensive unit closing down passing lanes and their shooters maintaining accuracy, the Eagles extended their advantage to 29-12 at half-time.   UJ made several changes in the third quarter in an attempt to close the gap, and the fresh legs initially brought renewed energy. They managed to find more scoring opportunities and put some pressure on their opponents. The Eagles however maintained their composure, keeping the scoreboard ticking and ending the quarter with a healthy 44-19 cushion.   The final 15 minutes produced a spirited contest. NWU kept control of the game with well-structured attacking moves. They adapted to any changes UJ made and absorbed the pressure until the final whistle, securing a convincing 58-28 victory to advance to next week’s final and the chance to add yet another trophy to their cabinet.   Quarter scores:  14-6 | 29-12 | 44-19 | 55-28 Player of the match:  Christi-Marie Coetzee (NWU)   NWU:  Sunel Smit, Jaime Matfield, Andrya Joubert, Jessica Matjiu,  Johanné Meyer, Amori Matthee, Christi-Mari Coetzee, Vivian Venancio, Jade Egwatu, Liane van Lochem, Casey Davids, Johanne Meyer.   UJ:  Alexandra Meimaris, Juanika Steinmann, Minette Erasmus, Luyanda Msomi, Yanke Broodryk, Kamogelo Motsepe, Cornelia Mupenda, Sli Ngcobo, Tassnique Norman, Jade Niemand, Kaneilwe Seopa, Makayla Edgecomb. UFS KOVSIES 46 – 35 MATIES   The Bloemfontein fortress that is the Callie Human Hall held strong as Kovsies had to dig deep to see off a determined Maties in their efforts of a successful title defence. The defending giants had history on their side, but Maties arrived with unfinished business, still stung from their round 7 collapse after leading by six at halftime.   From the first whistle, the Maroon Machine looked to control possession, but Liame de Lange struck early with two interceptions before Kovsies netted their opener. Maties quickly realised there was no room for error. Under pressure, Kovsies fed off the home crowd to edge the first quarter 11–9.   Maties slowed the tempo in the next 15 minutes and grew in confidence as Hanna Kriel stayed deadly accurate. Yet Kovsies’ experience shone through, their senior players keeping the scoreboard ticking. By halftime they had pulled clear, 24–16.   The third quarter swung Maties’ way, with Kriel repeatedly escaping De Lange and Reratilwe Letsoalo’s long reach. The Maroon Machine capitalised on the power play to narrow the gap, but Kovsies steadied to hold a 34–31 advantage heading into the final stretch.   The last quarter was a battle of basics, both teams disciplined under pressure. But when the power play arrived, Kovsies pounced, stretching their lead beyond reach. A late Maties goal proved only consolation as the Bloemfontein side sealed a commanding 46–35 victory and their place in the final.   Quarter scores:  11-9| 24-16 | 34-31 | 46-35 Player of the match:  Liame de Lange (UFS Kovsies)   UFS Kovsies:  Liame de Lange, Reratilwe Letsoalo, Elene Vosloo, Xandri Fourie, Charne van Vuuren, Chanique Eyberg, Mari du Raan, Thando Mokoena, Leane Otto, Megan Erasmus, Syamthandanda Sambo, Mienke Delport.   Maties:  Hannah Kriel, Michelle van der Merwe, Lara Ehlers, Lize Rossouw, Syntiche Kabuya, Juane Maass, Thabisa Yekani, Bianca Odendaal, Chloe Parsadh, Kristine McGregor, Lara Steenkamp, Jana Martin.   Full results, log and final fixture HERE .

UFS Kovsies are hard at work preparing for their high-stakes Varsity Netball 2025 semi-final clash against Maties on Monday 22 September (19:00) at the Callie Human Hall in Bloemfontein. It will be a rematch of the round 7 encounter in which the defending champions had to overcome a deficit to finally clinch a 55-47 victory over the Maroon Machine.   After a season of growth, resilience, and standout performances, the squad is now focused on turning their experience into success in the knockout stage. Coach Burta de Kock described the season as “truly incredible,” highlighting the contributions of seven first-year players who have quickly made their mark.   “We had an incredible SA Universities tournament … but we lost the final against UJ. At the end of the day, it’s experience that nobody can buy or take away. We are very proud of the girls,” she said, underlining the pride in her team’s journey.   Looking ahead to the semi-final, De Kock emphasised preparation and adaptability.   “It’s exciting for us to have a rematch because then you know what you can change, and you can anticipate that they will do the same. Our focus isn’t on the semi-final itself, our focus is on the team, and that is Maties. We look at where we can make our strengths even stronger, and where we can challenge them faster.”   Several standout performers have been central to Kovsies’ success. De Kock mentioned Xandri Fourie, who transitioned from a defensive role to a key playmaker, and captain Reratilwe Letsoalo, praising both as “incredible role models” for the younger players.   Letsoalo echoed her coach’s sentiments upon reflection on the season.   “We have established (ourselves) as a team that want to be dominant … approaching every game as it comes.”   On the upcoming match, she added, “It’s very important that we do the basics right. The lessons from the Maties game are positive – push until the last whistle, the score isn’t a decider if you keep doing your part.”   When it comes to motivation, Letsoalo emphasised leading by example. “The best way to keep the team motivated under pressure is to start with doing my own job … during tough moments, people look up to you for leadership.”   Full fixtures   HERE.   by Jürgen Smith

UWC has made history, clinching their third consecutive Varsity Football championship with a narrow 1-0 victory over the UJ Women’s Football on Monday night, 19 September 2025. Played in a packed UJ Soweto Stadium, the final was a tense affair. Both teams struggled to create clear scoring opportunities in a goalless first half, although UWC maintained a persistent attack. The UJ defence, led by Shannon Macomo and Portia Masilela, put up a strong fight, successfully containing UWC's offensive threats like Chelsea Daniels and captain Tiffany Kortjie. Just as the second half began, UWC's Kortjie delivered the decisive blow. In the 46 th minute, she scored the only goal of the match, securing the treble championship for the Western Cape side. Despite the goal, UJ fought to get back into the game. Captain Sthembile Sandleni, Kabelo Mokoena, and substitute Gugulethu Dhlamini led the charge, but their efforts were ultimately fruitless. UJ's best chance came in the final moments of the game when Kamogelo Maponya had a one-on-one opportunity with the UWC goalkeeper, but her shot went wide. Following the victory, UWC coach Thinasonke Mbuli praised her team and the strategic preparation that led to the win. She highlighted the role of the team's video analyst, stating, "The credit for this victory must go to our video analyst. He knew the threat from the opposition... We knew that UJ striker Thato Mofolo would be lethal with her usual turns because she’s good at that.”   SCORERS:   UWC:  Tiffany Kortjie   Player of the Match:  Fikile Magama (UWC) TEAMS:   UJ: Manana Myeki, Shannon Macomo, Portia Masilela, Kabelo Mokoena, Nokuthula Sekhukhuni, Sbongakonke Mzobe, Sthembile Sandleni, Sthembile Msomi, Atlegang Mogale, Thato Mofolo, Kamogelo Maponya. UWC: Siphesihle Dlamini, Mmabatho Mogale, Unathi Simayile, Fikile Magama, Zikhona Nogqala, Vonisiwe Maswanganyi, Nwabisa Qoba, Akholiwe Matsotsi, Thembelihle Zulu, Tiffany Kortjie, Chelsea Daniels.   Player of the Tournament:  Thabiso Senyatsi (TUT Women’s Football) Cashbuild Golden Glove:  Manana Myeki (UJ Women’s Football) Suzuki Golden Boot:  Thato Mofolo (UJ Women’s Football).

UJ are aiming for a third consecutive spot in the final when they take on NWU on Monday 22 September (17:00) in the first semi-final of Varsity Netball 2025 at the NWU Mafikeng Great Hall in Mahikeng.   After an unbeaten run through the tournament, the Orange Army will hope to avenge their loss (42-50) against the Eagles in round 7. UJ stormed through the first six matches of the season, maintaining a perfect record against defending champions UFS Kovsies, Maties, Varsity College, Wits, Madibaz and UP-Tuks.   Captain Cornelia Mupenda said the impressive winning streak was a huge confidence booster.   "Being at the top of the log with six out of six wins was really special for us. It showed that all the hard work we put in was paying off and kept us motivated to push even harder."   Mupenda described the loss to NWU as a valuable lesson.   "It reminded us that we can’t afford to switch off at any point and that we need to stay sharp right until the end. It was a wake-up call to reset and refocus.”   UJ’s recent success is undeniable. They reached the final for two consecutive years, a first in the team's history. In both 2023 and 2024, they were runners-up after falling in close matches against UP-Tuks and Kovsies that went into extra time.   Mupenda, a senior player who was part of both finals, said she is determined to go all the way this year.   "Reaching back-to-back finals was a huge achievement, but it’s also shown us how much more we need to do to take that final step. Going into this semi-final, our focus is on executing our game plan with intensity and composure. We want to give ourselves the best chance to reach the final again and, this time, to make sure we finish the job and lift the trophy."   The team is currently facing a challenge with two of its senior players, Tarle Mathe and Owethu Ngubane, away on national duty with the SPAR Proteas against New Zealand and Australia.   "Having Tarle and Sammy away with the national team definitely has had an impact," Mupenda admitted, "because they’re important players for us on and off the court. We are really proud of them for representing us at a national level." Full fixtures   HERE.   by Collen Maepa

With the Varsity Football and Netball tournaments reaching the final stages of competition we are excited to announce that the standout players of this season will be hitting the road in style, thanks to Hertz Car Rental South Africa, who will be rewarding them with Suzuki Swift cars to drive for a full year. As the Official Car Rental Partner of Varsity Football and Netball, Hertz is once again backing our star players in a big way. This year, the Overall Players of the Tournament in both the Varsity Football Men and Women's competitions along with the Player of the Tournament in the Netball competition will each receive a Hertz-sponsored vehicle as part of their prize! The winners will be announced after the final of their respective tournaments. Varsity Football Women final – 19 September Netball final – 29 September Varsity Football Men final   - 2 October Each of the award winners will be granted use of a vehicle for a 12-month period or 25 000km which ever comes first. The winner must be in possession of a valid driver’s license and the vehicles must be insured comprehensively.

Forty minutes of nail-biting action stands between Maties and a place in the final of Varsity Netball 2025 when they take on UFS Kovsies on Monday 22 September (19:00) in their semi-final at the Callie Human Hall in Bloemfontein.   With both teams eager to showcase their skills, Maties head coach Sasha-Lee Petersen said her side will need to be ruthless and play with intensity if they hope to overcome the defending champions.   “The mood in the camp is very positive and focused. The players are excited but at the same time, they know there’s still work to be done.”   The Maroon Machine had a six point lead at half-time in the teams’ round 7 encounter, before Kovsies came back to snatch the victory. Petersen has vowed it won’t happen again.   “Building on our previous encounter against them, which went really well, we’ll need to tighten up on staying clinical in our execution.”   Peterson admitted that she was proud of the team’s effort and determination in securing a spot in the semi-final.   “It’s a big milestone for us and a reflection of all the hard work and commitment throughout the season. We stuck to our processes, and we grew each week. We also built strong connections on and off the court which has been a big strength.”   Captain Syntiche Kabuya, player of the match against Kovsies, said the team has prepared well and now all that remains is execution, a task she is confident her side can handle.   “The team is very excited and focused and dedicated to win and show everyone what we’re capable of. ⁠I think we’ve done a million little things well and now is the time to tie it all together.   “We can work more on executing our game plan for longer and not getting involved or absorbed into outside things. Kovsies is a team that never gives up, so we have to keep grinding and going till the final whistle.”  Full fixtures   HERE.   Watch all the highlights of the season HERE . by Ayanda Frances Felem

NWU know that regular victories count for nothing when it comes to knockout netball. Having defeated UJ in round 7, they are now preparing for the rematch that will decide who advances to the final of Varsity Netball 2025. Their semi-final encounter takes place on Monday 22 September at 17:00 at the NWU Mafikeng Great Hall in Mahikeng.   Head coach Elsunet du Plessis made it clear that her side cannot rely on past results. “A semi-final is a completely different contest. Knockout matches demand a higher level of focus and intensity. We know UJ will come back stronger, so we cannot rely on what happened before. Our approach will be to tighten up our structures, stay disciplined, and make sure we adapt quickly to whatever they bring on the day.”   Du Plessis said her players will need to stay calm under pressure while maintaining their defensive and attacking systems.   “We will be emphasizing decision-making, sticking to our game plan, and controlling the tempo of the game. Our defensive intensity and attacking patience will be crucial, but most importantly, we want to stay calm, minimize errors, and capitalize on our opportunities.”   Captain Martine Jordaan echoed her coach’s words and stressed the importance of unity on the court. “As players, we know the margins are small in knockout matches. Our focus will be on backing each other, staying connected across all thirds, and making sure that every turnover and every centre pass counts. We have worked hard to get here, and now it’s about delivering as a team.”   The Eagles’ preparation has been built across the season through a mix of disciplined training and competitive match play. According to Du Plessis, the focus has been on keeping players fresh and mentally sharp. “Physically, it’s about smart recovery, managing loads, and ensuring the players are fresh. Mentally, we are encouraging them to trust the preparation they have done, to focus on their roles, and to enjoy the challenge.”   Full fixtures HERE.   For highlights of all the matches this season HERE. by Phenyo Mokgothu

The Varsity Football round-robin stages have officially come to an end, and the semi-finals line-up has now been confirmed. UJ and NWU will enjoy home-ground advantage in the next stage, as they prepare to face TUT and UFS respectively. In last night’s actions, NWU produced a dominant performance to defeat Wits 3-0 at the Mahikeng Stadium, sealing their spot with authority. TUT, meanwhile, caused a surprise in Bloemfontein as they edged UFS 2-1 in a tightly contested clash to sneak into the top four and book their semi-final berth. UJ continued their impressive form by maintaining a perfect record, edging CUT 1-0 at the CUT Stadium to finish the round-robin stages unbeaten. Despite a convincing 4-0 victory over DUT, UP-Tuks fell agonizingly short and were ultimately denied a place in the knockout rounds, bringing their campaign to a close.   Here are the players who made the biggest impact in their respective matches. Matome Rangata (UP-Tuks Football) Sterling performance for the Tuks winger, two assists and a goal to conclude The Stripe Generation’s campaign. Rangata was lethal in attack for Tuks being involved in three of Tuks four goals on the day. The explosive winger caused problems for DUT defense Tuks were offensive on the wing with Rangata playing an integral role switching from left to right wings throughout the match. Involved in the first goal setting up Risen Albert before registering himself on the score sheet in the opening stanza. Set-up Quinton Stokes-Waller for Tuks’ third goal before closing things off with another assist to Mathuane Selotola for the fourth goal.     Tshepo Mosieleng (UJ Football): The UJ midfielder proved to be a constant threat, creating several scoring opportunities for his teammates while showcasing his versatility by causing problems for the opposition both in the heart of the midfield and out wide on the wings.   Surprise Khoza (TUT Football): Surprise Khoza, the big defender of TUT was immense in the defence for the visitors, and he was instrumental in the UFS being unable to score more. His powerful header for the match-winning goal was the cherry on the cake.   Khumoetsile Van Schalkwyk (NWU Football) In NWU’s 3-0 victory over Wits, right winger Khumoetsile Van Schalkwyk delivered a decisive performance. He opened the scoring in the 5th minute with a composed finish inside the penalty area, giving NWU early momentum. In the second half, Van Schalkwyk turned provider, supplying the assist for captain Aphelele Sibisi’s goal that doubled the lead. His sharp runs, vision, and ability to unsettle defenders made him a constant threat on the right flank. By contributing directly to two goals, Van Schalkwyk was central to NWU’s dominance and stood out as one of the key figures of the match.   Fixtures:  HERE    Tickets:  HERE.

The Varsity Football round-robin stages have officially concluded, with plenty of drama and excitement in Round 7. NWU delivered a commanding performance at the Mahikeng Stadium, overpowering Wits with a dominant 3-0 victory to secure a home semi final. At Shimlas Park in Bloemfontein, TUT caused a major upset by defeating UFS 2-1, a result that allowed them to squeeze into fourth place and claim the last available semi final spot. Despite a convincing 4-0 win over DUT, UP-Tuks fell just short and were unable to book a place in the knockout rounds. Meanwhile, UJ maintained their unbeaten run in the group stages, edging CUT 1-0 at the CUT Stadium to seal their place in the semifinals and finish the round stages on a high.   UFS 1-2 TUT   The four-time champions, TUT Football, kept their Varsity Football 2025 campaign alive on Thursday by stunning the high-flying UFS Football with a 2-1 victory at Shimla Park in Bloemfontein. The Red Army broke their two-match losing streak at exactly the right time in the competition. For UFS, however, it was a disappointing evening as they created plenty of chances but were undone by lapses in concentration at crucial moments. The scoring was opened in the 8th minute when Lucky Raphala converted a penalty for TUT against the run of play. The referee judged that Omphemetse Athibeng had handled the ball in the box during a corner. That early goal gave TUT more control of the match, whereas up to that point, it had been the hosts applying the pressure. UFS slowly regained their rhythm and started creating more shots on target. Their persistence finally paid off when Jose Mondi pounced on a loose ball and drilled it into the back of the net, via a deflection, for the equaliser just before half-time. Just as UFS looked to be gaining the upper hand, the towering Surprise Khoza restored TUT’s lead in the 64th minute with a superb header from a pinpoint delivery into the box. That proved to be the match-winning goal. Despite the defeat, UFS have done enough to secure their spot in the playoffs, but it remains to be seen who their next opponents will be.   SCORERS:   UFS: Jose Mondi.   TUT: Lucky Raphala, Surprise Khoza.   Player of the Match:  Surprise Khoza (TUT)   TEAMS:   UFS: Lethokuhle Makhaya, Ben Kraai, Kwethemba Ndlovu, 3 Xolani Mqwathi, Iviwe Dyabuza (captain), Tshepo Ndlovu, Jarome Jansen, 20 Jose Mondi, 18 Kagiso Semenya, Kagisho Lekholoa, Omphemetse Athibeng TUT: Luyanda Mandindi, Lehlomo Tolo, Kediwe Ncenya, Surprise Khoza, Alan Moja (captain), Sphesihle Mazibuko, Katlego Motlhale, Menzukuthula Ntshangase, Lucky Raphala, Lindokuhle Nyandeni, Precious Mohale.   NWU 3-0 Wits   NWU Football delivered a commanding performance in round 7 of the Varsity Football tournament, defeating Wits Football 3-0 in Mahikeng on Thursday night. The home side made an explosive start, finding the breakthrough within the opening five minutes. A swift move down the right flank saw Khumoetsile Van Schalkwyk perfectly placed near the penalty spot to convert a low cross and hand NWU an early 1-0 lead. The goal lifted the intensity of the match, with both teams enjoying equal spells of possession. Wits, despite conceding early, maintained composure and looked to build attacking momentum, but they were denied by NWU’s well-organised backline. By the 30-minute mark, NWU had registered three shots on target and several promising entries into the Wits penalty area, underlining their attacking intent. Wits responded with periods of possession but lacked penetration in the final third. The scoreline remained 1-0 at halftime, with NWU looking the sharper side in front of goal. The second half began with NWU pressing high and pinning Wits deep in their half. Their dominance was rewarded in the 51 st  minute when captain Aphelele Sibisi doubled the advantage. Once again, the threat came from the right flank, as Van Schalkwyk turned provider, linking up with the midfield before setting up Sibisi, who calmly slotted home for 2-0. NWU midfield trio-controlled possession, winning duels and recycling play efficiently, leaving Wits chasing shadows. The visitors struggled to carve out clear chances and were limited to long-range efforts that failed to trouble the NWU goalkeeper. The result was sealed in the 89th minute when substitute Xolani Masethi produced the goal of the night. Spotting space outside the box, he unleashed a powerful long-range strike that flew beyond the Wits keeper, making it 3-0 and sending the home supporters into celebration. NWU’s blend of early attacking sharpness, midfield dominance, and defensive discipline ensured a deserved victory.   SCORERS :   NWU: Khumoetsile Van Schalkwyk, Aphelele Sibisi, Xolani Masethi.   Player of the Match : Lucas Seromo (NWU)                      TEAMS:   NWU: Ethan Mokwena, Lucky Letwaba, Lucas Seromo, Aphelele Wandile Sibisi, Knowledge Muleya, Thabang Majoro, Thapelo Letsholonyane, Reatlegile Kgosithebe, Momelezi Mngati, Bokamoso Ramoshoane and Khumoetsile Van Schalkwyk Wits:  Lwando Mvinjana, Obakeng Leping, Kgwadi Molepo, Tebogo Masemola, Simphiwe Mabena, Karabo Tsoane, Prince Manku, Tumelo Nkwe, Tshepho Mothiba, Mxolisi Mthiya and Kaihil Cloete.   UP-Tuks 4-0 DUT   UP-Tuks Football finish fifth on the log with a 4-0 victory over struggling DUT Football. The Stripe Generation played hosts to struggling DUT desperate to keep their playoffs hopes alive. The opening half saw both sides asking questions early on. DUT had a chance to take a lead inside the first minute, but Bonga Mthembu saw his effort goes wide. Tuks thought they had a penalty on the 20 th minute when Raymond Matlamela was brought down in the box however referee was not interested. Their efforts were rewarded within a couple of minutes when playmaker Raymond Matlamela released Risen Albert who saw his shot blocked by keeper Samkelo Zulu. The save only went as far as Quinton Stokes-Waller’s who made no mistake and poked into the net. The home side pleated their lead swiftly through Matome Rangata. It was Tuks on the break and Rangata with a brilliant run out wide into the box and slotted it in the bottom corner. Tuks heading into the break with a two-goal cushion. The Stripe Generation picked up where they left off and continue to run rampage on the visitors. A pleasing cross hits Stokes-Waller before hitting DUT defender to take Tuks 3 nil up. It was not long before substitute Mathuane Selotola made it four for the Pretoria based side with another counter attack goal, goalkeeper committed and Rangata sent a stunning cross to Selotola. The experienced forward first slipped before he regathered and placed at the back of the net. A comfortable win for the Tuks to wrap up their campaign.   SCORERS:   UP-Tuks: Quinton Stokes-Waller (2), Matome Rangata, Mathuane Selotola.   Player of the Match: Risen Albert (UP-Tuks)   TEAMS:   UP-Tuks: Leathan Croats, Atlegang Masemola, Edward Rankwe, Damian Overmeyer, Nkosana Shabalala, Camagu Mdevulana, Samukelo Ngodela, Matome Rangata, Raymond Tshwane Matlamela, Risen Albert, Quintin Stokes-Waller DUT: Samkelo Zulu, Luyanda Ntuli, Xolani Mkhonza, Sifundo Ngema, Nkululeko Nkosi, Sbonelo Ngidi, Thalente Mkhize, Phiwayinkosi Mchunu, Bonga Mthembu, Cebani Ngidi, Ndumiso Khali.   CUT 0-1 UJ   In their final clash before the semi-finals, table-topping UJ Football maintained their unbeaten record with a hard-fought 1-0 victory against a battling CUT Football in Bloemfontein. UJ, dominant all season, showcased their class, while CUT, with just one win, fought valiantly but fell short. UJ controlled the midfield, dictating play with authority. Tokoloho Vilakazi struck early, firing home a clinical goal to give the visitors the lead. UJ’s relentless pressure kept CUT on the back foot, though the home side’s defence, led by captain Thabang Mokoena, stood firm to keep the score at 1-0 by halftime. The second half followed a similar pattern, with UJ’s attack, orchestrated by the creative Tshepo Mosieleng, creating numerous chances. However, poor finishing prevented the Johannesburg side from extending their lead. CUT showed resilience, with substitute Mpho Ntabi nearly equalising midway through the second half, only to be thwarted by a brilliant defending and a save from UJ goalkeeper Kyle van Rensburg. As the match neared its end, CUT pushed desperately for a draw, but UJ’s defence remained resolute, repelling every attack. The visitors’ discipline and composure under pressure ensured they held on to secure the win, allowing them to finish the league stage unbeaten and head into the semifinals brimming with confidence and momentum.   SCORERS:   UJ:  Tokoloho Vilakazi   Player of the Match: Sinenhlanhla Mkhonza (UJ)   TEAMS:   CUT:  Siseko Faku, Thabang Mokoena (C), Edward Tshabalala, Alwande Sibiya, Keletso Khumalo, Siyabonga Mzelem, Pogisho Dikole, Polokeho Letlema, Mzwakhe Shabalala, Nkosingiphile Lubisi, Boeletsang Rankali. UJ: Thabo Moshikere, Ndabezinhle Nkosi (C), Yasidu Lifa, Karabo Modisane, Ngwako Ramaloko, Keletso Sekhwela, Sinenhlanhla Mkhonza, Kyle Van Rensburg, Tokoloho Vilakazi, Tumelo Machete, Tshepo Mosieleng.     Fixtures:  HERE    Tickets:  HERE.

The stage is set for a thrilling showdown as the UJ Orange Army prepares to face defending champions UWC in the Varsity Women’s Football 2025 final. For UJ, winning isn't just about taking home the trophy but it's about delivering a special gift for the university's 20 th  anniversary. "Bringing the trophy home would be a perfect gift for the university," said coach Nthabeleng Modiko. "We know how formidable UWC is, and we don't take them lightly. We're calling on all our supporters from UJ's four campuses to come out in full force and help us get this win. "We've been preparing for this moment since our loss in the 2024 semi-final. We've analysed our mistakes and have been working tirelessly to ensure that we are ready for this moment." After winning the title in 2022, they fell short in the 2023 final against UWC. This time, they are determined to reclaim their spot at the top. The team’s run to the final has been particularly impressive, as they haven’t conceded a single goal. Captain Sthembile Sandleni, a veteran of the 2022 championship team, is confident in her squad’s ability. "We need to approach this final with the same energy and focus we've had throughout the tournament," she said. "Our main goal is to score goals and win the match at full-time and avoiding a penalty shootout. I had the privilege to lift the trophy in my first year at UJ and it would be great to assist the current first year student-athletes to also enjoy the feeling of being a champion.” The Orange Army has risen through the ranks with an impressive trajectory, capturing the second Varsity Football title on their home turf in 2022. “It would be great to see Thato [Mofolo], walk away with the golden boot award at the end of the tournament,” said Sandleni. “I’m excited that we have reached the 2025 final without conceding a single goal. We worked hard to get this far. It was heartbreaking for everyone in 2024 for starting very well in the round-robin stage and crashed out in the semifinal against TUT. So, I’m very proud and we want to win it for our university’s 20 th  birthday celebrations.”   Fixtures:  HERE    Tickets:  HERE.   By: Collen Maepa.

As the Varsity Football 2025 tournament reaches its climax, teams are fiercely contesting the top four spots to secure semi-final berths. Wits Football remains in contention, tied on eight points and occupying fourth place, with TUT Football in fifth and UP-Tuks Football close behind, setting the stage for a potential upset in the battle for semi-final qualification. Wits, making their return to Varsity Football, began the tournament strongly, winning their first two home games to collect six points. However, momentum slowed after a challenging away loss to UJ in their third match, followed by consecutive draws. As they head into their final group-stage clash against NWU Football in North West, the Educated Footballers remain in a tight race to secure a semi-final berth. Striker Simphiwe Mabena remains optimistic despite the team’s current slump, believing they still have a strong chance to turn things around and secure a spot in the semi-finals. "As a team we've played our hearts out and gave it our all each and every game but if we could have capitalised most of our chances, we'd be sitting in a comfortable position, but not all hope is lost. We go to North West and fight for one another, fight for the brand of our supporters and most importantly do it for ourselves and families,” said Mabena. "Playing the final is our main goal but it won't come easy we have to work extra hard in order to achieve that goal.” Mabenahas been impactful for Wits with two goals in the tournament. Also paving his football career in ABC Motsepe League, he is grateful to play in the Varsity Football tournament. "The feeling is priceless to be honest, Varsity Football is a platform to showcase our talents and to also represent one of the biggest brands in the country means a lot to me," he said. The match is scheduled to take place at Mafikeng Stadium in North West on Thursday, 18 September, with kick-off set for 18:30.   Fixtures:  HERE    Tickets:  HERE.   By: Andisiwe Sigoxo