The University of Johannesburg (UJ) Senior Netball Team locked in their place in the 2026 Varsity Netball semifinals after securing a hard-fought 49-41 victory over Nelson Mandela University (NMU-Madibaz) on Monday, 14 September. The Round 7 triumph caps off an emphatic group stage campaign and sets up a high-stakes showdown against the University of the Free State (UFS-Kovsies) at the Callie Human Hall in Bloemfontein on Monday, 21 September, with centre pass set for 19:00.

UJ’s journey to the knockout stages has been defined by consistency and dominance on the road, boasting an impressive six wins from seven matches. Their path to the top four features an array of decisive performances across the tournament:

Statement Victory: A crucial 50-40 win over UFS-Kovsies during Round 5 at Wits University on 6 September, handing UJ strong momentum ahead of their semifinal rematch.

Dominant Run: Strategic, high-scoring victories over Stellenbosch University (46-39), Central University of Technology (57-36), North-West University (60-43), and Wits University (58-50).

Heading back to the “City of Roses,” the Orange Army carries both peak form and a lingering ambition to rewrite history. Having fallen short against the host nation in the 2024 final – where Kovsies claimed their fifth title – UJ returns to Bloemfontein with a revamped strategy, a proven track record against their hosts this season, and a clear shot at the ultimate crown.

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