UJ prepares for semifinal victory after first Varsity Netball loss to NWU

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) Women’s Netball team is looking to rebound from its first defeat of the season and secure a spot in the Varsity Netball final for the third consecutive year. After a dominant six-game winning streak, UJ fell 42-50 to North-West University (NWU) in a match that sparked controversy among fans.

They will play NWU again in the semifinal of the tournament on Monday, 22 September 2025.

UJ’s Alex Meimaris in action against NWU in Round 7 of Varsity Netball. PHOTO, Varsity Sports

Fans react to loss

On social media, UJ supporters expressed frustration with the officiating during the match. Instagram comments captured the sentiment:

Lwandle3266: “We lost beside Bad Umpiring, Our Midcourt is very expensive they need to clean up, Kubura take a bow, what a stellar performance. Defence played very well.”

n0zi_bear: “They should grant you guys a rematch out of pure respect for netball because that umpiring was not ‘make sure’. It was truly shocking.”

Lessons learned and eyes on the prize

Despite the fan backlash, UJ captain and Namibian international Cornelia Mupenda sees the loss as a crucial learning experience. “The loss was a reminder that we have to stay switched on all the time,” she said. “It was a wake-up call to reset and refocus. Taking on NWU again in the semifinal means we have to respond with the strongest possible comeback.”

Mupenda, who has been a key part of the team’s defence in their past two finals, is determined to lead UJ to a championship victory. The team finished as runners-up in both 2023 and 2024, with each final going into extra time. “Going into this semifinal, our focus is on executing our game plan with intensity and composure,” Mupenda stated. “We want to give ourselves the best chance to reach the final again and, this time, to make sure we finish the job and lift the trophy.”

Season summary

UJ’s impressive run this season included victories over SU Maties (54-39), UFS Kovsies (53-51), and Varsity College (56-34). They continued their momentum in Bumper Weekend Two, defeating Wits (54-32), NMU (57-40) and UP-Tuks (38-45) before the unexpected loss to NWU. Their journey continues on Monday, 22 September 2025, where they will face NWU again in the semifinal.