The North-West University (NWU) is set to face the University of the Western Cape (UWC) in the Varsity Football final on 26 September at NWU Mahikeng Stadium. After an exciting season, the NWU will host its sixth and final game, marking the climax of their home campaign and setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion.
Coach Nkululeko Khwezilomso Malgas, who earlier in the season predicted the NWU would host six matches, reflects on the journey leading to this moment. “The crowd has been amazing, and I thought it would be unfair for us not to play the last two matches at home. Finals are tricky; you can’t read too much into previous results. They often go to the team that needs it the most, with a bit of luck,” he says, acknowledging the importance of the support his team has received throughout the campaign.
As the team prepares for the final, coach Malgas highlights their progress, but stresses the ongoing need for preparation. "We’ve done so much so far, but as you know, you’re never fully satisfied. There’s always more work to do,” he says, adding that both mental and physical readiness will be crucial in the upcoming match.
The pressure of playing a home final, with all eyes on both the coach and the team, is something he accepts as part of the game. “In football, pressure is just part of it. The fans have been incredibly supportive from the onset. It’s been a journey, and we’ve felt their presence every step of the way," coach Malgas adds, expressing his gratitude to their supporters who have been there since the start.
The UWC enters the final brimming with confidence, having outplayed the University of Pretoria (UP) in the semi-finals, and they have made it clear that they have their sights set on the trophy. Coach Malgas knows the challenge that awaits and respects the strength of their opponents.
"They are the only side that did a double over UP this season. You will underestimate them at your own peril. They have made some changes since we last played them during the group stages. They are a sleeping giant, hungry to repeat their 2015 success,” he remarks, emphasising the level of focus needed to overcome UWC.
Facing a team as strong as UWC, coach Malgas knows what it will take to secure victory. "They are a very awkward side to play against, and we need to keep our belief and work extra hard. We have to be focused throughout the match because they fight until the end,” he explains, underscoring the importance of resilience and determination in this decisive game.
With the final just days away, coach Malgas’ message to his team is clear: this is their chance to make history. "This is their opportunity to do something special in front of their home supporters. This is what we have been building towards, and now it’s time to deliver.”
As excitement builds among NWU supporters and football fans alike, the Varsity Football final promises to be an intense and thrilling battle. Both teams are determined to lift the trophy, and the stage is set for a memorable showdown at the Mahikeng Stadium.
The NWU Eagles’ fans are ready to back their purple army.
