FNB UJ new-look squad aiming to make the final of FNB Varsity Cup Women 2026

After bowing out in the semifinals last year, the FNB UJ Women’s team will have set their sights on rewriting history and going one step further in this year’s campaign. The side will kick off its campaign on Friday 6 March against provincial rivals, FNB Tuks, at the UJ Stadium at 17:00.

Coach Lesego Malebadi says they’ve had to overcome some difficulties in preparing for the tournament but is confident her side will do well.

“Our preparations have been challenging, but that hasn’t surprised us,” she said.

“We are used to tough circumstances. I’ve been really impressed by the team’s resilience, work ethic, and ability to adapt to any situation.”

The Orange Army showed glimpses of their potential in 2025 but occasionally let games slip in crucial moments.

The coach says they’ve learned from past lessons and will be looking to rectify those mistakes.

“The biggest lesson we took from 2025 was the importance of our reaction and starting well. We want to play from the first whistle and not put ourselves in a position where we’re forced to chase the game."

“The plan is to play a fast, running game - high tempo, physical, and relentless. We look to dominate every collision, every phase, and every moment, and drive the game from the first whistle to the last.”

The makeup of this year’s team will feature a handful of experienced players who will look to guide the juniors.

There are also a couple of players the coach says spectators should keep an eye out for.

“Our squad is very young, with a few experienced players guiding the group and a number of our younger players already stepping into senior roles and responsibilities,” coach Sage added.

“It’s an exciting blend of youth and leadership. Players to look out for include Hlobisile Mbatha, Thabisile Zungu, Risper Mgwenya, and Alutha Ngcezula - all of whom bring energy, talent, and impact to our game.”

FNB UJ realise the importance of the opening game as it will allow them to start their campaign on a high.

Provisional squad (subject to change):

Vuyiswa Dlamini, Salizwa Tyali, Alutha Ngcezula, Limamkele Duma, Sphilile Sigwaza, Ntandoyenkosi Nhleko, Siyanda Mtsweni, Amber Howell, Thembelihle Mgwenya, Siham Chtioui, Erica Ekeji, Thabisile Zungu, Sindiswa Ngwenya, Boitumelo Motshoane, Hlobisile Mbatha, Nomcebo Mchunu, Thandolwethu Xaba, Lethiwe Buthelezi, Erin Barrett, Babalwa Nkomo, Chinemeren Sorronnadi, Sinoyolo Nqinekile, Asandiswa Nkosi, Nyashadzashe Gonangombe, Clarah Ngceku, Sande Ndandane, Lebogang Mametja, Tsalanang Mokalane, Christelle Ross

By: Avuyile Sawula