The University of the Free State (UFS) men’s football team took a significant step forward in this year’s tournament after claiming a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Wits University at the Bidvest Stadium on 11 September 2025. This crucial win not only secured three points for the Kovsies but also elevated them to second place on the log, securing them a place in the semi-finals.
The match was a tense affair from the first whistle, with both sides displaying determination and tactical discipline. Wits pressed hard and tested the UFS defence on several occasions, but the Kovsies remained composed and resolute. The UFS capitalised on their chance to score and managed to hold on to their lead right until the final whistle, sealing an impressive victory away from home.
Midfielder Omphemetse Athibeng was deservedly named Man of the Match after putting in a commanding performance in the middle of the park, breaking up Wits’ attacks and driving the team forward at crucial moments to help secure the 1-0 victory for the UFS.
Head coach Mokete Tsotetsi, who has been in charge for just three weeks, reflected on the importance of the result. “This win was very important,” he said. “The coaches who started with the boys did a wonderful job, and credit must be given to them. I came in and tried to motivate them, implement football tactics gradually – one game at a time – and they have been responding well from the first game till now.”
Despite the short preparation time – with coach Tsotetsi only having two days with the players before the tournament began – he focused on building trust and belief within the squad. “The most important thing now is to give them confidence, to show them that I believe in them and that I trust them,” he explained.
The UFS community has been vocal in their support of the team, expressing pride in what the players have achieved in such a short time. Looking ahead to the semi-finals, coach Tsotetsi remains grounded but optimistic. “We are still taking it one day at a time. We are still humble and trying to achieve, one day at a time.”
With a semi-final now on the horizon, the UFS will continue to prepare with focus and determination. The team will look to carry this winning momentum into the next stage of the competition as they aim for a place in the final. The university community will be right behind them, cheering them on until the very end.