The beautiful game has a unique way of testing character, and over three competitive days in July, the University of Johannesburg’s (UJ) U20 Women’s Football Team didn’t just meet the challenge – they redefined it. Competing in the Engen Knockout Challenge, the young Orange Army put on a show of tactical brilliance, and sheer determination, storming all the way to the grand finale to face Mamelodi Sundowns at Wits’ Marks Park Sportsgrounds.
While the ultimate trophy may have eluded them in the final whistle, their unbeaten streak leading up to the final proved that the future of South African women’s football burns brightly in Auckland Park.
The tournament kicked off on Friday, 17 July with the ultimate litmus test: a clash against heavyweights Mamelodi Sundowns. Refusing to be intimidated by the stature of their opponents, the UJ starlets went toe-to-toe in a tactical chess match, fighting hard to secure a crucial 1-1 draw.
With their confidence surging, UJ returned to the pitch later that day to face Rosina Sedibane. What followed was pure poetry in motion. The Orange Army unleashed an attacking masterclass, dominating every blade of grass to claim a spectacular 4-0 victory – courtesy of two braces from Kusaselihle Shibase and Nobahle Mdelwa who came off the bench in the second half.
Day 2 demanded tactical discipline and mental fortitude. UJ opened the day with a 1-1 draw against the highly touted SAFA Academy, showcasing their ability to weather storms and grind out essential points against elite developmental talent.
But it was their second match of the day against JVW that truly highlighted their championship DNA. In this high-stakes encounter, UJ secured a thrilling 1-0 win. Two days down, zero losses, and a ticket to the knockout rounds safely booked.
The business end of the tournament arrived on Sunday, 19 July, and UJ saved some of their finest football for the semifinal against Mamelodi XI Stars. Playing with the fluid grace and sharp precision that characterized their entire campaign, the UJ U20s dismantled Stars in a breathtaking 3-1 victory, rightfully earning their place in the tournament’s final showpiece.
In the final act, a blockbuster rematch against Mamelodi Sundowns awaited. Having played five intense matches in less than 72 hours, the UJ warriors gave everything they had left in the tank. Though the football gods favored Sundowns this time in a tight 2-0 defeat, the final scoreline does little to dim the brilliance of UJ’s campaign.
“Silverware measures a moment, but character measures a legacy. The UJ U20 Women’s Team didn’t just play; they inspired,” says Andisiwe Mgcoyi, Head Coach: UJ Women’s U20 Team.
The UJ ladies settled for a silver medal with Portia Masilela earning the Defender of the Tournament award.
Follow UJ Sport on Facebook, X and Instagram for daily updates.
