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Historical triumph
Bloemfontein – The men’s football team of the University of the Free State (UFS) has written history by winning their first Varsity football title. The Kovsies defeated Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) 5-4 on penalties after a tense 0-0 draw in the final in Shimla Park on Thursday evening, October 2, 2025. A crowded home-made what the team took the trophy, a big moment for the university and its supporters.
This victory ends for a long time on UFS, which only reached the final for the second time. Fits champions such as the North-West University and University of the Western Cape have ruled the tournament, but this year’s edition saw Underdogs shine. The 2025 season contained eight teams in a Round-Robin format, with UFS at the top of their group after strong victories, including a 3-1 victory at the University of Pretoria.
The electric atmosphere in Shimla Park
Thousands of fans turned Shimla Park into a sea of blue and white, creating a lively atmosphere that stimulated the home team. Proponents waved flags and sang through the competition, which changed the location to a fort. For Tut, known as the Red Army, the road trip was difficult, but their fans contributed to the excitement with drums and songs.
The competition started among spotlights, where both teams showed nerves in this collision with high efforts. UFS, who played on a home floor, pushed hard from the start, while Tut concentrated on a solid defense. This final was the third in a row decided by penalties, which shows how close these competitions can be.
A tense struggle: first half highlights
The opening half was full of action, with UFS that aimed to take control early. Vooruit Jerome Jansen almost scored when his powerful shot just flew wide from the pole and he grabbed breath of the crowd. The game was warmed up in the 25th minute when UFS captain Iviwe Dyabuza collided with Tut’s Lucky Raphala in a heavy tackle. Both players had to leave the field injured, forcing changes.
The output of Dyabuza was a blow to Kovsies, but replacement Theko Phinithi got up well.
Despite the chances, neither of them could break the impasse. The defense of Tut was sturdy and blocked UFS attacks, while the backline of Kovsies kept the Red Army at a distance. The rest score remained 0-0 and set up an exciting second half.
Second half of drama and the path to punishments
After the break, UFS came out stronger, creating various openings. They dominated it and tested the goalkeeper of Tut with shots remotely. Tut had a moment of hope when they put the ball in the net, but the referee ruled him offside and led to protests from their bank.
As time tapped, the fatigue started, but the intensity never fell. Extra time was not played, according to the tournament rules, which led directly to fines. The crowd held up their breath when the shooting began.
The decisive fine -shootout
The penalties were edge-of-the-chair things. Jarome Jansen scored for UFS to take an early lead, but Tut’s Katlegho Motlhale brought it right. [14] Ben Kraai put Kovsies ahead again, only for Kediwe Ncenya to bind it for the Red Army. [14] The turning point came when Tut’s Lehlomo Tolo shot his stairs over the bar. With the pressure on, Theko Phinithi quietly hit the winner for UFS home, causing wild parties to arouse.
Tut’s surprise Khoza earned FNB player from the competition for his strong display, but the night was from the Kovsies. This shootout victory reflects beyond the final, such as the 2023 collision where the University of Johannesburg Stellenbosch defeated in places.
Proud words of leaders and coach
“I am extremely proud of our team,” said Prof. Hester C. Klopper, Vice-Kanselier and director of the UFS. “Winning our first Varsity football trophy is not only a historical sporting performance, but it is also a reflection of the resilience, excellence and unity of our Kovsie community. It is a decisive moment that inspires faith in the power of dedication and shared goal. To win our team: well -done.”
Coach Tsotetsi praised the group effort and the support of all involved. “I came to the team a little late. This historical achievement means not only for me, but also the entire institution. The only thing I had to do was use a culture of conviction – that everything you want to achieve, you go all the way. I have made them believe it is possible,” Tsotetsi said.
He also thanked the technical team for their hard work behind the scenes.
The winning technical team
Guiding the Kovsies to Glorie was a dedicated crew:
- Head coach: Mokete Tsotetsi
- Assistant -Coach: Toho Moeti
- Goalkeeper -Coach: Donald Nkopane
- Power and conditioning coach: Yanelisa Chamanane
- Student Power and Conditioning Coach: Boikarabelo Lepodisi
- Physiotherapist: Tshepo Nkake
- Equipment managers: Ashley Shingange and Lutho Nyume
- Video -analyst: Mafase Malomane
- Empower Rep: Tebogo Malatjie
Their planning and support was the key in building a team that can handle the pressure of a final.
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