NWU Bow Out of Varsity Football in Semi-Final Penalty Heartbreak
- Karen Scheepers
- Sep 26
- 2 min read
The NWU Mahikeng Stadium was packed with passionate supporters on Thursday night as NWU and UFS squared off for a place in the Varsity Football 2025 final. The match lived up to its billing, with both teams showing tactical organisation and relentless effort from start to finish.
NWU started brightly, dominating possession and creating the early chances. Within the first 20 minutes, they forced two saves from UFS goalkeeper Lethokuhle Makhaya, while the visitors managed just one attempt as they tried to settle into the game. The Eagles’ high press and quick passing had UFS under pressure, but the scoreline remained goalless at halftime.
Missed Chances Define the Second Half
The second half followed a familiar pattern, with NWU dictating tempo and territory. Their midfield kept recycling possession, pushing UFS deeper into their own half. Despite several promising moves, NWU’s finishing touch was missing.
The defining moment came in the final minute of regulation time. Awarded a penalty, the Eagles had the perfect chance to snatch victory. But Momelezi Mngati’s effort was saved, leaving the contest locked at 0–0 and sending the clash into a penalty shootout.
The Penalty Shootout
Under immense pressure, both sides began the shootout with composure. But as the tension mounted, NWU faltered. Two missed spot-kicks proved decisive, allowing UFS to edge ahead. The Kovsies converted four of their attempts, clinching a 4–3 shootout win and silencing the home crowd.
Player of the Match
Despite NWU’s dominance in open play, it was Lethokuhle Makhaya of UFS who stood tall. His penalty save in the dying minutes of regular time and his composure in the shootout made him the clear Player of the Match.
Teams
NWU: Ethan Mokwena, Lucky Letwaba, Lucas Seromo, Aphelele Wandile Sibisi, Knowledge Muleya, Thabang Majoro, Thapelo Letsholonyane, Reatlegile Kgosithebe, Momelezi Mngati, Bokamoso Ramoshoane, Khumoetsile Van Schalkwyk.
UFS: Lethokuhle Makhaya, Ben Kraai, Philani Zondi, Xolani Mqwathi, Iviwe Dyabuza, Tshepo Ndlovu, Jose Mondi, Jarome Jansen, Omphemetse Matlhogonolo Athibeng, Kagisho Lekholoa, Adolph Radingoana.
Looking Back and Ahead
For NWU, it was a painful exit after a campaign marked by control, tactical maturity, and flashes of brilliance. Their inability to turn chances into goals ultimately cost them in the biggest game of the season. For UFS, the victory represents resilience and clinical finishing under pressure, propelling them into the Varsity Football 2025 final with momentum.
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