The FNB NWU Eagles are ready to step up in the Varsity Cup final against the FNB UP-Tuks in a rivalry battle on Monday 13 April in Tshwane. Coach Burger van der Westhuizen’s side dominated FNB Maties at the Fanie du Toit Sportsgrounds to secure their place in the highly anticipated final.

With preparations in place ahead of the final showdown, the Eagles are hoping to repeat their 2023 Varsity Cup Success, but they have a tough row to hoe.

Road to the finals

The Purple Army have enjoyed success since their opening fixture against FNB CUT in Bloemfontein, playing champagne rugby and maintaining a positive squad vibe. NWU Eagles have won six games, one short of their rivals UP-Tuks. FNB UJ handed the Eagles their first loss of their 2026 Varsity Cup campaign in Johannesburg, while their second defeat came at the hands of FNB Maties in Stellenbosch.

Yet, UP-Tuks' only defeat came in their round five fixture against the Eagles at the Fanie du Toit Sportsgrounds on 16 March, where their powerful unbeaten run was broken. The Eagles’ only win in Pretoria came in 2023, when they secured a narrow 26–22 victory over Tuks.

“They are a very good team, very physical. It will truly take something special to beat them at their home ground,” said Coach Burger, suggesting that the Eagles are confident of causing an upset in the Jacaranda City.

According to Van der Westhuizen, the Eagles believed they can reach the final thanks to their impressive second-half performance against UCT Ikeys, which saw them come from behind to clinch a 56–53 victory in Potchefstroom.

Head-to-head

Historically, UP-Tuks have dominated, but in recent seasons the Eagles have caught up, winning three of their last four encounters, including the dramatic 30–22 victory in March. The final is expected to be decided by moments that often make the difference in tight games.

Lifting the varsity Cup trophy would mean a great deal for coach Burger and the team. “It would mean everything,” he said. "Not just for the team, but for the entire town and the NWU community across all three campuses. It would be something truly special for the boys, for their journeys ahead in professional rugby, and for their families and loved ones.”

The NWU ere eying their 2023 Varsity Cup feat