The North-West University (NWU) delivered a commanding performance in the semi-final clash against the University of the Free State (UFS), defeating them 4-0 at the NWU Mahikeng Stadium to cement their place in the Varsity Football final.

The result was a reversal of fortune after UFS had beaten the NWU in the group stages. This time, the home side dominated from the onset, leaving UFS with little chance of repeating their previous success.

The match started with the NWU taking control of possession and setting the tempo early on. Although the opening 10 minutes did not produce any goals, the NWU was clearly on top, dictating play and putting pressure on the UFS defence. The breakthrough finally came in the 26th minute when the NWU’s Reatlegile Kgosithebe rose high to meet a cross from the right flank, heading the ball into the back of the net. Reatlegile's well-timed header gave the home team a deserved lead after a sustained period of dominance.

Despite UFS's efforts to respond, the NWU continued to press, and the first half ended with the score still 1-0 in favour of the hosts. Both teams showed plenty of energy, but it was the NWU’s ability to capitalise on counterattacks that gave them the upper hand.

The second half saw the NWU continue to impose their will on the game. In the 52nd minute, Lucky Letwaba doubled the NWU’s lead with a stunning free kick. The set piece was awarded after a tough challenge by a UFS defender on an NWU player, and Lucky made no mistake, curling the ball past the goalkeeper to make the score 2-0.

UFS tried to find a way back into the game, but the NWU’s defence remained resolute, with the goalkeeper making several crucial saves to keep the clean sheet intact. As the game progressed, the NWU piled on more pressure, and in the 84th minute, Xolani Masethi added a third goal with a powerful volley from the left flank, leaving the UFS goalkeeper with no chance.

To cap off an excellent team performance, Molemo Kukama scored the NWU's fourth goal in the 90th minute, finishing off a swift counterattack. The final whistle confirmed the NWU's 4-0 victory and their place in the Varsity Football final.

The NWU will take on the University of the Western Cape in the Varsity Football final on 26 September on their home turf.

NWU scorers:
26th minute: Retlegile Kgosithebe
52nd minute: Lucky Letwaba
84th minute: Xolani Masethi
90th minute: Molemo Kukama

FNB Player of the Match: Reatlegile Kgosithebe

Experienced NWU player Lesego Motsepe only have eyes for the ball.