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The TUT Red Army come back from 1-0 down to clinch their fifth and record Varsity Football title with a 3-2 victory over arch rivals UP-Tuks. UP-Tuks locked horns with arch rivals TUT in the fierce Tshwane derby with the Varsity Football title at hand. The much anticipated encounter did not spare any action as both teams took to the field blazing. The Red Army were the first to pose threats to Tuks defence with Akani Rathokoa and Lucky Raphala combining well, however Rathokoa could not capitalize. Tuks responded immediately with Risen Albert coming close to taking the lead. The home side then grabbed the lead in the 17th minute. Risen Albert carried a perfect cross connecting flawlessly with Ntokozo Madela, as he headed it in the bottom corner to hand Stripe Generation a much needed lead, and the leading goal scorer taking his tally to six goals. Nicholas Stothard’s troops however became complacent after going ahead inviting pressure from TUT. The Red Army sent threats seeking instant response. Tuks suffered a blow after losing Risen Albert due to injury. The Red Army posed threats with no success as Tuks held firm to take a narrow 1-0 lead at the interval. TUT returned from the tunnel rejuvenated and responded with an equalizer and subsequent lead courtesy Iviwe Sodidi and Rearabilwe Mphahlele. Bushy Moloi’s troops made a statement return with Mphahlele at the thick of things, first an assist and then a goal. TUT with cheeky and deadly counter pressed Tuks’ defence, Mphahlele found Sodidi in the box who tapped it in to level matters. The bold wing back capitalized on Tuks sloppy defence, Matome Rangata failing to control and clear his lines, the ball fell on Mphahlele’s lethal boot who fired a cracker. Gennaro Johnson failed to gather the ball as it went through his hands and legs as TUT found themselves in the driving seat. Desperate for an equalizer the Stripe Generation sent numbers upfront forcing crucial safes from Luyanda Mandindi. Samukelo Ngodela and Kholofelo Masenamela saw their efforts blocked by Mandindi. The high flying winger Akani Rathokoa put the icing on the cake, sealing the fifth star for the Red Army. Individual brilliance from Rathokoa as he pierced through Tuks defence and releases a cracker at the far corner to make it 3-1 in favour of the Red Army. Jason Cox fired from inside the box for Tuks’ second however it was not enough as TUT sealed their fifth Varsity Football title beating rivals Tuks 3-2. SCORERS: UP-Tuks: (1) 2 Ntokozo Madela, Jason Cox. TUT: (0) 3 Iviwe Sodidi, Rearabilwe Mphahlele, Akani Rathokoa Player of the Match: Luyanda Mandindi (TUT) Suzuki Golden Boot winner: Ntokozo Madela (Tuks) FNB Player of the Tournament: Akani Rathokoa (TUT) TEAMS: UP-Tuks: Gennaro Johnson, Matome Rangata, Jason Cox, Lebogang Mswane, Euan Jenneker, Paballo Mamabolo, Samukelo Ngodela, Risen Albert, Chuene Moabelo, Phiwayinkhosi Dube, Ntokozo Madela TUT: Luyanda Mandindi, Oreratile Mapudi, Ntshuxeko Mkhabela, Tshiamo Rantho, Lehlomo Tolo, Thobani Ngwenya, Likho James, Lucky Raphala, Kearabilwe Mphahlele, Akani Rathokoa, Iviwe Sodidi

UPDATE: Voting for the FNB Player of the Tournament has closed as of 9am on 2 October. Winner will be announced after the final at 7pm. The 2026 Varsity Football season has delivered another action packed campaign bringing high-intensity football, dramatic moments and plenty of #iyachesa diski moments during the season. With the tournament heading towards the semi-finals and final we can't to see who will be crowned this year's champions. But before we discover who lifts the trophy, it’s time to celebrate the stars who have stood out across the competition. The head coaches selected the players who they thought had the biggest impact and now the fans can have their say and vote for the FNB Player of the Tournament 2026, with the winner taking home a cash prize of R10 000 from FNB. How the nominees were selected: 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: The public can cast their votes until Friday, 2 October at 9am. The winner will be the player with the most votes at the deadline and will be announced after the final on the same day. UPDATE: Voting for the FNB Player of the Tournament has closed as of 9am on 2 October. Winner will be announced after the final at 7pm. Matome Rangata (UP-Tuks) Tuks explosive winger established himself as a threat and a player to watch whenever the Stripe Generation takes to field. Rangata was a thorn in the defence with deadly runs and cheeky feet on the left wing, eliminating players, creating chances and breaking defensive lines. He is always in the thick of things and a constant threat to opposition, displaying man of the match performances or scoring sensational free kicks. Sinenhlanhla Mkhonza (UJ): Sinenhlanhla Mkhonza stood out for UJ with a composed and influential performance in the heart of the Orange Army midfield. Operating as the pivot, Mkhonza plays a crucial role in breaking up the opposition’s attacks and disrupting their rhythm, while also showing quality in possession. His ability to win back the ball and quickly transition UJ into attack helps create important opportunities, making him a key figure in the team’s performance. Akani Rathokoa: TUT’s newly signed winger Akani Rathokoa is taking Varsity Football by storm as the record champions chase a historic fifth title. The exciting wide player has joined the Pretoria giants with his pace, flair and attacking threat expected to play a key role as TUT target another Varsity Football crown. Rathokoa was key to TUT attacking troops in all opening encounters, alluding the freedom given by the coaches to express himself. Fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE

UP-Tuks have battled their way through a season of twists, setbacks and late drama to book their place in the 2026 Varsity Football final, where they will face Tshwane rivals TUT at Tuks Stadium on 2 October. The Stripe Generation announced themselves in style in the opening round, producing a clinical second-half comeback to defeat defending champions UFS 4-2. After trailing 2-1 at half-time, Tuks turned the game around through goals from Matome Rangata, Samukelo Ngodela and Paballo Mamabolo to claim an impressive opening victory. The momentum was checked in the following two rounds. Tuks suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to UWC before drawing 1-1 with TUT in a fiercely contested Tshwane derby. Ntokozo Madela provided the equaliser against TUT after Likho James had put the Red Army ahead. Tuks responded emphatically against DUT, securing a 3-0 away victory. Risen Albert was instrumental in the opening goal, setting up Madela before Rangata produced a spectacular long-range finish. Philasande Khuzwayo then completed the scoring to give Tuks three valuable points. A narrow 2-1 defeat to Wits left Tuks needing points in their final two matches to remain in the hunt for the semi-finals. They delivered exactly that. A 3-0 victory over UL, featuring a sensational Rangata free kick and further goals from Albert and Raymond Matlamela, kept their campaign alive. Then came a decisive final-round clash against log leaders UJ. Madela's 17th-minute strike proved enough as Tuks defended their advantage under sustained pressure to secure a 1-0 victory and book their semi-final place. The semi-final brought another meeting with UJ and another game decided by the finest of margins. After a tense, tactical battle in front of a packed UJ Soweto Stadium, substitute Kholofelo Masenamela became the hero, finding the winner in the 86th minute. Tuks held firm through the frantic closing stages to secure a second successive 1-0 victory over UJ and a place in the final. Now the stage is set for an all-Tshwane showdown. Tuks vs TUT. Tuks Stadium. 2 October. 19:00. After seven rounds and a dramatic semi-final, the road ends with one final match and the 2026 Varsity Football title on the line.

TUT’s road to the 2026 Varsity Football final has been built on resilience, attacking quality and the ability to deliver when it matters most. The Red Army struggled in the early stages and then clutched in the final group stage game to advance to the playoffs with a better goal difference. TUT opened their campaign with a narrow 1-0 defeat to UJ before bouncing back in emphatic fashion. TUT claimed their first win of the season against defending champions UFS, with captain Lucky Raphala calmly converting from the penalty spot to secure a valuable three points. A thrilling Tshwane derby against UP-Tuks followed, with TUT taking the lead through Likho James before the Stripe Generation fought back to earn a 1-1 draw. Goalkeeper Luyanda Madindi played a crucial role late in the contest to preserve the point. TUT suffered a setback against UWC but responded with one of the season’s most dramatic victories. Goals from Raphala and Akani Rathokoa put the Red Army ahead at different stages against DUT before Ntshuxeko Mkhabela converted a penalty in the fourth minute of stoppage time to seal a 3-2 win. A 2-0 defeat to Wits followed, but TUT finished the group phase strongly. Going into the final group stage match they were in 6th on the log tied on points with UFS in 5th and needed a big win to stand a chance of making it to semi-finals. They dismantled UL 4-1, with Likho James, Akani Rathokoa and Kearabilwe Mphahlele all finding the net to book their spot in the playoffs with a better goal difference than defending champs UFS. Then came the semi-final rematch with Wits. TUT produced a disciplined performance to secure a 1-0 victory, with Mphahlele finishing a neat combination involving James in the 19th minute. Despite increasing pressure from Wits in the second half, the Red Army held firm to book their place in the final. Now TUT stand one game away from another Varsity Football title. Their final challenge will be familiar opposition, as they face UP-Tuks at Tuks Stadium on 2 October at 19:00. The Tshwane rivals have already shared the spoils this season. There will be no such luxury in the final. One match remains. One trophy awaits.

TUT goalkeeper Luyanda Mandindi is relishing the prospect of an all-Pretoria showdown against UP-Tuks in the Varsity Football 2026 final, with both sides chasing another piece of silverware. TUT booked their place in the title decider after edging Wits 1-0 in the semi-final, setting up a derby clash against a Tuks side that defeated UJ by the same scoreline. Mandindi praised their opponents but believes TUT have the quality and unity required to deliver on the biggest stage. "Great fixture. TUT is a good team with great players, great technical team. I won't say negative things about them, but even us we have a strong team. The goalkeeper also highlighted the togetherness within the TUT camp as they target another title. "There's unity, we are more unified. There's love, there's love in the team, and we're looking forward to win the fifth star, and it's loading." With both teams’ chasing history, Mandindi is confident heading into the Pretoria derby. "Pretoria derby, two teams, TUT has three, we have four, so both of us are looking for one advantage. But I guess the Lord will be with us, and I will say thank you to TUT for the fifth star that I've been looking for since last year, but I couldn't get it, so this year is the right time, I guess." Fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE By: Lehlogonolo Ditshego

UP-Tuks winger Matome Rangata believes his side’s journey through a challenging Varsity Football 2026 campaign has made reaching the final even more special as they prepare to face TUT in an all-Pretoria showdown. Tuks booked their place in the title decider after edging UJ 1-0 in the semi-final, setting up a highly anticipated clash against their Pretoria rivals. "This season, I feel like we've been through a lot of highs and lows but eventually we managed to get through all the hardship and we made it to the final.” Reflecting on the team’s journey, Rangata believes reaching the final is a fitting reward for their perseverance. "In concluding the season with Tuks, I feel like it's been a nice story for us because we didn't think we'd have so many challenges along the way and by the end, here we are in the finals. With the tournament derby now on the horizon, Rangata is relishing the occasion and hopes Tuks can finish their campaign with silverware. "For me, it's always a pleasure to play the tournament derby. It's a game everyone would like to play. It is highly contested and I hope it lives up to how it always is. Hopefully we can get there and win it." Fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE By: Lehlogonolo Ditshego

UJ are the Varsity Netball 2026 champions after beating defending champions NWU Eagles 56-44 in this year’s final at the Mafikeng Great Hall. It is the first time in the history of the competition that the Orange Army walk away with the title. The Johannesburg side controlled the contest from the opening whistle. Strong defence, accurate shooting and relentless pressure helped them dominate all four quarters and deny NWU back-to-back titles. UJ made their intentions clear in the first quarter. They moved the ball with purpose and put NWU under pressure at both ends of the court. Their strong start gave them a 14–11 lead at the first break. NWU fought back in a physical second quarter, particularly around the shooting circles. The home side reduced the impact of UJ's early dominance, but the visitors remained composed. UJ went into half-time with a narrow 27–24 advantage. WATCH HIGHLIGHTS OF THE FINAL HERE. The third quarter proved decisive. The Orange Army stepped up their defensive pressure and punished the Eagles’ mistakes. Their shooters converted the opportunities created by the defence, while NWU struggled to maintain possession and find their usual attacking rhythm. The visitors outplayed the defending champions and stretched their lead to 46–30 heading into the final quarter. NWU needed a strong response in the last 15 minutes, but UJ refused to loosen their grip on the match. They continued to convert their chances and kept the scoreboard moving. NWU fought until the final whistle but could not overturn the deficit. The 56–44 victory handed UJ their maiden Varsity Netball crown Quarter scores: 14-11|27-24|46-30|56-44 Player of the match: Tarle Mathe (UJ) FNB Player of the Tournament: Juanita van Tonder (Madibaz) Suzuki Players’ Player of the Year: Juanita van Tonder (Madibaz) UJ: Alexandra Meimaris, Amara Agbai, Boitumelo Mahloko, Georgia Leppan, Cornelia Mupenda, Kadijat Abubakar, Kamogelo Motsepe, Sesandile Ngubane, Shiloh Berardelli, Suné Barnard, Tarle Mathe, Jaymee Joubert. NWU Eagles: Christi-Marie Coetzee, Reze Coetzer, Njabulo Hlophe, Andrya Joubert, Lethabo Komane, Jaime Matfield, Amori Matthee, Amia Roux, Makgoshi Priscilla Mogashoa, Sunel Smith, Liané van Lochem, Vivian Venancio.

Finally claiming the trophy as winners of Varsity Netball 2026 will mark a triumphant full-circle moment for UJ after four years of persistent pursuit. The Orange Army and defending champions NWU Eagles travel to Mahikeng where they will meet on Monday, 28 September in this year’s final. For senior defender Boitumelo Mahloko and assistant coach Nkanyiso Yeni, claiming the crown wouldn't just be a victory – it would mark a triumphant full-circle moment after half a decade of persistent pursuit. UJ has firmly established itself as a force in South African university netball circles, maintaining a spot among the tournament’s top four teams for the past four years. However, heartbreak has often accompanied their consistency. After back-to-back final losses against UP-Tuks (2023) and UFS Kovsies (2024), and semi-final exits against Maties (2022) and NWU (2025), UJ have unmatched hunger to finally cross the finish line. Assistant coach Nkanyiso Yeni says coming up against the Eagles again brings back memories. “However, we do not want to dwell on past events because we have built our team, worked hard, and grown over the past year. Playing them on their home turf makes this challenge even bigger, but we are ready.” The Orange Army’s path to the 2026 final was tested in a thrilling semi-final clash against five-time champions Kovsies, a match Yeni credits as the ultimate trial by fire. “The tough semi-final against Kovsies was the best preparation for the team going into the final. It gave us the intensity and the right pressure. Our new players have exceeded expectations, and as coaches, our job is to allow them to play their game and experience the final in the best possible way. “The senior players have given UJ their all, and it would be incredible for them to leave with the sweetest memory of winning the tournament.” For senior standout Boitumelo Mahloko, Monday’s clash carries deep personal significance. Mahloko’s journey has been defined by resilience, including a gruelling recovery from an injury that could have ended her Varsity Netball career a year early. “When I decided to come to UJ, I wanted to be part of the culture that built the team to what it is today. The journey with UJ has been one of the biggest life-shaping experiences,” says Mahloko. She says that having already contributed to UJ’s USSA Championship victory in July, capping 2026 off with the Varsity Netball crown would complete an unprecedented double. “Winning this tournament would be a full-circle moment. I could have stopped playing in 2025 due to my injury, but the coach and I had a plan to wrap up this tournament this year after my rehabilitation. It would be amazing to lift that trophy after such a rollercoaster. I want to look back with pride and say we wrote the history books for UJ.” Facing the defending champions on their home court offers little room for error, a reality Mahloko and her teammates fully embrace. “We can’t relax, we know NWU is tricky and very good. My family is coming to support me and the team at the final, and I’m ready to do whatever it takes to win this one!” Fixtures HERE. Tickets HERE.

Defending champions NWU Eagles are gearing up for one last test in Varsity Netball 2026 as they prepare for Monday’s (28 September) title showdown against UJ in Mahikeng. Preparation has centred on improving connections across the court, sharpening movement and ensuring the Eagles play to their strengths. NWU vice-captain Armoni Matthee says confidence is high in the camp ahead of the final. “The team is feeling very confident and we are 100% ready for the final. We have had a really good tournament so far, and being in the final is a huge privilege for us. We are very excited and can’t wait to get out on court and play. “Our main focus in training has been on balancing the court, our timing on leads, building our connection and, most importantly, playing our own game.” The final brings together two teams that already know each other well. UJ handed NWU their first defeat of the campaign with a 60–43 victory during the round-robin stage. Matthee, however, says the Eagles are not dwelling on that result. “The previous game is in the past, and we are treating the final as a completely new game. We know that we didn’t play our own game or to the best of our abilities in that match.” Matthee says one of the main lessons from that encounter was the need to remain connected and reset when momentum shifts. “UJ is a very strong team with experienced players right through the court, from attack to defence, so we know it’s not going to be easy. For us, it will be about playing as a unit, backing each other and believing in ourselves.” NWU reached the final after edging UP-Tuks 52–50 in a tense semi-final. Now, with one match remaining, Matthee says the Eagles understand what defending their crown would mean. “Winning it two years in a row would show the character, fight and belief within this group. We know we have to leave everything out on court.” NWU head coach Elsunet du Plessis shares that assessment. She says protecting possession and converting opportunities will be crucial in the title decider. “UJ are a very strong and competitive side, and we know it will be another tough battle. Our focus this week will be on improving our own performance, looking after possession and being clinical with the opportunities we create.” Fixtures HERE. Tickets HERE.

Victories for TUT and UP-Tuks set up a Tshwane derby for the Varsity Football 2026 final. TUT edged Wits at Wits Stadium to book their place in the title decider, while UP-Tuks defeated UJ 1-0 at the UJ Soweto Stadium. UJ will be disappointed after an impressive campaign that saw them reach the semi-finals, but their journey came to an end against a disciplined Tuks side. The results set up an all-Tshwane final, with TUT and UP-Tuks now set to battle for the Varsity Football crown and the opportunity to finish their campaigns as champions. Wits 0-1 TUT TUT secured a place in the final with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Wits, to try their hand at a fifth Varsity Football title. The Red Army started brightly and broke the deadlock in the 19th minute. A neat one-two combination in the box on the left involving Likho James created the opening, with Kereabilwe Mphahlele finishing the move to put TUT 1-0 ahead. Wits goalkeeper Lwando Mvinjana produced a composed save under pressure to deny Lucky Raphala’s strike from the centre. This was the story for the first half with TUT retaining more possession. Wits struggled at times to contain TUT’s attacking threat, with Raphala, James and Akani Rathokoa causing problems for the home defence. However, Obakeng Leping put in an impressive defensive shift for Wits as both teams created only limited opportunities on target. In the second half, substitute Molia Kenny Matswiki came close to an equaliser shortly after the restart, narrowly missing an opportunity as the home side began to increase the pressure. By the 60th minute, Wits looked far livelier and more created several chances, but TUT remained resilient in defence. Wits’s task became even more difficult in the 70th minute when defender Keabetswe Segaetsho received a second yellow card, resulting in a red, following a rough challenge on Rathokoa, reducing the side to 10. Five minutes of added time were announced at the end of the match, with Wits pushing desperately for an equaliser while TUT focused on holding onto their narrow lead. The final whistle eventually confirmed a 1-0 victory for TUT, sending them through to the final where they will hunt for another title. SCORERS: Wits: (0) 0 TUT: (1) 1 Player of the Match: Akani Rathokoa (TUT) TEAMS: Wits: Kgwadi Molepo (c), Mxolisi Mthiya, Tebogo Masemola, Obakeng Leping, Karabo Tsoane, Tshimologo Mokae, Moloko Kgatla, Keabetswe Segaetsho, Simangaliso Dlamini, Lebokane Hlase, Lwando Mvinjana. TUT: Luyanda Mandindi, Oreratile Mapudi, Ntshuxeko Mkhabela, Tshiamo Rantho, Lehlomo Tolo, Thobani Ngwenya, Light James, Lucky Raphala (c), Kereabilwe Mphahlele, Akani Rathokoa, Iviwe Sodidi. UJ 0-1 UP-Tuks In a game defined by razor-thin margins and breathless tension, super-sub Kholofelo Masenamela produced an 86th minute moment of magic to propel UP-Tuks into the Varsity Football final with a dramatic 1-0 victory over rivals UJ on Friday night. The highly anticipated semifinal at a packed UJ Soweto Stadium lived up to the pre-match social media frenzy, delivering a high-stakes clash of tactical discipline, physicality, and relentless intent. Riding the confidence of their Round 7 victory over the Orange Army, the Stripe Generation burst out of the blocks, dominating early possession and pinning UJ deep within their own territory. The host side was thrust into immediate crisis management when captain Yasidu Lifa received a yellow card in the very first minute following a reckless challenge on Edward Kolokoto along the left flank. Despite Tuks launching wave after wave of early attacks, UJ’s defensive line held firm under siege. Settling into their rhythm, the hosts gradually absorbed the pressure and mounted a series of sharp counter attacks to test the visitors' resolve, sending a clear signal that the Soweto fortress would not fall easily. As the second half unfolded, the scorching pace gave way to a tactical stalemate. Both sides adjusted their structures, prioritizing defensive solidity over high-risk offense. While the roaring home crowd attempted to spur the Orange Army forward, it was UP-Tuks' tactical depth that ultimately tipped the scales. With time ticking away, the visitors introduced fresh legs from the bench – a strategic gamble that yielded the ultimate reward. In the 86th minute, Masenamela found space in the box and clinically slotted home the match-winner after UJ shotstopper Bayanda failed to punch away the ball in the air, breaking the deadlock and sending the visiting bench into wild celebrations. UJ mounted a frantic, desperate surge in stoppage time, pushing every player forward in search of a miracle equalizer. However, the resilient Tuks defense weathered the storm until the final whistle, sending the home supporters quietly into the Soweto night. With UP-Tuks replicating TUT's 1-0 semifinal victory, the 2026 Varsity Football title will now be decided in an all-Tshwane blockbuster final between the two capital city powerhouses. SCORERS: UJ: (0) 0 UP-Tuks: (0) 1 Kholofelo Masenamela Player of the Match: Jason Cox (UP-Tuks) TEAMS: UJ: Bayanda Mkhonza, Yasidu Lifa, Sinenhlanhla Mkhonza, Njabulo Jele, Moraka Mathidza, Tumelo Machete, Ofentse Motlhabi, Tshepo Mosieleng, Mfundi Ngema, Koketso Monyama, Keletso Sekhwela. UP-Tuks: Gennaro Johnson, Matome Rangata, Jason Cox, Paballo Mamabolo, Euan Jenneker, Samukelo Ngodela, Sibusiso Tolomane, Risen Albert, Cuene Moabelo, Edward Kolokoto, Ntokozo Madela. Fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE

South Africa’s top university esports competitors are locked in for two days of gaming action and entertainment for everyone After weeks of qualifying competitions between 18 universities and over 500 players across the country, the field has been narrowed down in the Varsity Esports Split 2 to just four representatives in each title. UP-Tuks will play host to the ultimate show-down on 2 and 3 October and gamers are in for a treat. In EA SPORTS FC, the University of the Free State will be represented by Kani18, Stellenbosch University by THIEFUSER, Tshwane University of Technology by mAnton17, while Sue-Da-Knees will compete on home ground for the University of Pretoria. The Rocket League field will see Tuks Reset representing the University of Pretoria, SuperNova flying the flag for Central University of Technology, Wits Rocket League representing the University of the Witwatersrand, and DraMaties competing for Stellenbosch University. VALORANT will feature two Emeris teams, Dominion and Eclipse, alongside Maties Valorant from Stellenbosch University and the UJ Orange Army from the University of Johannesburg. You can find the full list of qualified players here. More Than Just the Main Stage The Varsity Esports Split 2 Finals promises to be an event not to be missed and gaming fans can expect far more than just the action on stage. The Split 2 Finals will bring together competitive university gaming, sponsor activations, challenges, giveaways, food and entertainment for the full duration of the event. Koodoo, on behalf of FNB, will give spectators the opportunity to jump into some of their favourite games, with gaming stations featuring titles including Mortal Kombat, EA SPORTS FC and Tekken 8. Red Bull will bring its Events Vehicle to the Split 2 Finals, adding music and atmosphere throughout the day while keeping competitors and spectators refreshed with Red Bull. Fans looking to refuel will find Roman's Pizza conveniently located at the event, serving pizza throughout the day. Those looking for an extra challenge can also put themselves to the test in the Roman's Pizza Fastest Eater competition. With esports events often running for several hours, keeping devices powered throughout the day can be a challenge. NIVEA MEN will tackle that with its Recharge Zone, giving players and spectators a comfortable space to relax, watch the action and charge their devices. “At NIVEA MEN, we understand that esports is all about performance, endurance, and staying connected,” says Nokuthula Bengu, Marketing Manager Nivea Body and Nivea Men. “That’s why we’ve created the NIVEA MEN Recharge Zone, a dedicated space where players and fans can power up their devices, take a moment to recharge, and get ready for the next match. Through this activation, NIVEA MEN is enhancing the Varsity Esports experience while supporting the growth of South Africa’s next generation of gaming talent.” Citroën will bring the C3 Max into the gaming experience through a dedicated sim racing activation. Guests will be able to compete for the fastest lap of the day, with Citroën merchandise up for grabs for those who can climb the leaderboard. “Gaming is a big part of how young people connect, compete and have fun, and that makes Varsity Esports a great fit for Citroën,” says Mmathapelo Khumalo, Brand Head of Citroën at Stellantis South Africa. “As a brand, we’ve always believed in keeping things simple, being a little daring and making experiences accessible to everyone. The C3 Max sim racing challenge brings that spirit to life in a fun way, and we’re looking forward to seeing who sets the fastest lap.” Varsity Esports will also host dedicated PlayStation gaming stations, where spectators can get involved in the action and compete for exclusive Varsity Esports merchandise. The competition will not be limited to the qualified esports players either. A special show match will see a member of the crowd take on a Varsity Sports athlete, bringing traditional university sport and esports together in a unique head-to-head challenge. Twelve Finalists. Three Titles. One Split 2 Stage. At the centre of the event remains the competition itself. Twelve of the strongest players and teams from the Split 2 season will arrive in Pretoria representing their universities, their teammates and their campuses. With university rivalries playing out across EA SPORTS FC, Rocket League and VALORANT, every finalist will have the opportunity to make their mark when the action moves from online competition to the live stage. For spectators, the Split 2 Finals offer the chance to support their university, experience the tournament atmosphere first-hand, take part in activations and challenges, win prizes and enjoy a full day of gaming entertainment. Expect good food, big crowd energy and even better esports action. Entrance to the Varsity Esports Split 2 Finals is free, but a ticket is required for entry. Fans can secure their free ticket here. Next Gen. Next Level.

Once bitten, twice shy – that is the firm battle cry echoing through the UJ side as they prepare to host rival UP-Tuks in a blockbuster Varsity Football semifinal clash this Friday. This fixture comes just days after UJ suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to UP-Tuks in Pretoria during the final round of the regular season. Now, back on home turf, the Orange Army is determined to turn the tables with a place in the coveted tournament final on the line. Preparations in the UJ camp have reached fever pitch, with squad morale riding high despite the recent setback. Vice-Captain Yasidu Lifa believes that the team’s inner drive and accountability during training sessions will prove decisive. "Preparations for the semifinal have been good and the mood in the camp is on a high. We know what the semifinal means – a game that stands between us and the final, so we’re treating it with the respect it deserves," said Lifa. "I don’t think UP-Tuks will beat us twice in a row. We will not allow that to happen, especially at our home ground. We will do what we know best and fight for the UJ badge. The supporters can expect to see an aggressive and hungry team that wants to win. We will do anything and everything possible to win the match, give our supporters bragging rights, and advance to the final." Lifa emphasized that tactical discipline and clinical execution will be key. "I don’t think that we have to do anything differently, but we look to utilize each and every chance we get to score goals, while staying organized and disciplined at the back not to concede." With the crowd behind them and a spot in the final within reach, UJ enters Friday’s encounter with clear intent: settle the score, protect the home fortress, and march into the Varsity Football final. Fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE By: Collen N Maepa