The UWC men's football team have followed in the boots of their female counterparts to be crowned Varsity Football 2024 champions. The Cape side scored a late equaliser in the final minutes and claimed the title after a tense 8-7 win on penalties against NWU in a match that ended 1-1 after regulation time.
The game began with NWU on the front foot, dominating the first 10 minutes with strong ball control and aggressive play. Despite their early dominance, both teams struggled to find the back of the net. By the 30th minute, the game had become more balanced, with NWU maintaining a strong ball possession but unable to break through UWC's defense. The first half ended in a stalemate at 0-0.
The second half saw NWU continue to push for the lead, and their persistence paid off in the 48th minute. A well-taken corner resulted in a towering header by Momelezi Mngati, putting NWU ahead 1-0.
As the match progressed, UWC began to find their rhythm, and in the 86th minute, Leandro De Sousa delivered a crucial equaliser. His powerful shot from outside the box on the left side left the NWU goalkeeper with no chance, levelling the score at 1-1. The late goal set up a nervy final few minutes, but despite five added minutes, neither side could find a winner, and the game went to penalties.
In the penalty shootout, both teams showed composure as the scores remained deadlocked after seven rounds. However, NWU's captain Olebogeng Moeti missed the crucial eighth penalty, allowing UWC to claim the title. UWC kept their nerve, scoring all of their penalties to secure an 8-7 victory and lift the trophy for a second time in their history.
PLAYER THAT IMPRESSED:
UWC striker Leandro De Sousa was the standout player for UWC, delivering a game-changing performance in the 2024 Varsity Football final.
His crucial equaliser in the 86th minute brought UWC back into contention when they were trailing 1-0. With a powerful shot from outside the box on the left side, De Sousa showcased his skill and composure under pressure. His goal levelled the match and shifted momentum in UWC's favour, ultimately leading them to victory.
The lanky forward’s influence was instrumental in keeping UWC’s title hopes alive, making him a key figure in their championship triumph.
SCORERS:
NWU: Momelezi Mngati 47
UWC: Leandro De Sousa 87
FNB PLAYER OF THE MATCH: Lesego Motsepe (NWU).
NWU: Ethan Mokwena, Olebogeng Moeti ©, Lucky Letwaba, Sousa Mathe, Lucas Seromo, Lesego Motsepe, Momelezi Mngati, Xolani Masethi, Ranonyane Mmutlane, Reatlegile Kgosithebe, Pascual Tivane.
UWC: Leandro De Sousa, Malinga Mdodana, Asibonge Maphumulo, Nkosingiphile Ncwane, Jadan Zeeman, Imaan January, Damian Overmeyer ©, Relebohile Matima, Leathan Croats, Khanya Dyani, Arnold Dube.