FNB UFH Women ready to reclaim the FNB Varsity Cup Women crown

As the 2026 FNB Varsity Cup Women campaign draws closer, FNB UFH Women’s Rugby head coach Ntyantyambo Mkhafu has voiced strong confidence in his squad’s preparation and hunger, emphasising their determination to mount a serious challenge and reclaim the title.

Preparations have been encouraging, with FNB UFH winning two of their three warm-up fixtures. Their only defeat came against a well-structured EP Queens squad, a match the coach believes offered valuable lessons despite the result.

“The preparations have been going well. Even in the loss, the ladies played well. It showed us where we need to improve,” he said.

Training sessions have been structured to simulate match conditions, with a strong focus on intensity and tactical discipline. Ntyantyambo is confident that this approach will translate into strong performances on the field.

“Our training is game-orientated. The players are super fit and ready to compete.”

Heading into the new season, FNB UFH are clear about their objective - reclaiming the trophy they won in 2024 before falling short in the semi-finals in 2025.

“We are expecting tough encounters. There will be no walkovers. Teams have gained experience over the past few seasons and improved tactically. But our plan does not change we want to win the Cup.”

The coach expects a highly tactical competition, acknowledging that opposition teams have strengthened their technical structures, which will make for intense battles throughout the campaign.

Leading the charge will be captain Lilitha Vakalisa, one of the standout performers last season, after earning multiple Player of the Match awards.

“She has strong leadership qualities, she is calm, and the players are comfortable around her. She is a great link between the squad and management.”

Bonja Sidisiwe, who represented Springboks U/20 and Border U/20, will also play a key role. New faces to watch include Siphokuhle Vakele (former Border U/20), Tumelo Madolo, and Alwaba Maqhude (Border U/16).

Strategically, FNB UFH will prioritize collecting maximum points during the round-robin phase to secure a strong position heading into the knockout stages.

“Every game counts. If we master our defense, the rest will follow. Defense will be pivotal for us.”

FNB UFH open their campaign with an away fixture against FNB Maties, where they aim to set the tone early.

FNB UFH Provisional Squad:

Mila Wawa, Aphiwe Nqana, Eyam Ngalo, Mathangana Masi, Siphosethu Gogodo, Thokozani Sikela, Simamkele Jolingana, Olwam Haka, Sindisiwe Mbonja, Inga Qogi, Cwenga Joni, Lilitha Vakalisa, Jobo Sokoyama, Siyolise Mbilase, Litha Tofu, Tumelelo Madolo, Qaqamba Nzondani, Ntomboxolo Tyobosani, Simnikiwe Mlakalaka, Lilitha Ngwenze, Tywaleni Sinekhaya, Siphokuhle Vakele, Alwaba Maqhude.

By: Thembela Tangana