The FNB NWU Eagles secured a commanding victory over FNB Maties, winning 50-10 in the semifinal of the Varsity Cup, held at Fanie du Toit Sportsgrounds. This decisive win sets the stage for a final showdown against FNB UP-Tuks on April 13, 2026.
In a remarkable performance, the Eagles scored six tries in the second half, demonstrating their dominance after a challenging start. Ricardo Fourie, who was named The FNB Player That Rocks in the semifinal, remarked, “Very fast game, very tough, but that’s how semifinals must be.”
Fourie expressed his gratitude for the recognition, stating, “Being named Man of the Match is an unbelievable honour for me. I could not have done it alone; credit to the team and the NWU community for their incredible support.”
The Eagles’ victory also avenged their earlier defeat to Maties, where they lost 30-26 on March 23. This semifinal win highlights the Eagles’ resilience and determination to claim the title.
FNB UP-Tuks reached the final by overcoming FNB UJ, ensuring a highly anticipated matchup between the two top teams of the tournament. Despite their impressive performances, it is notable that neither NWU nor Tuks received nominations for the Player of the Tournament award.
Observers have noted the puzzling absence of nominees from the two best teams, with one commentator stating, “It is quite puzzling that the two best teams of the tournament, NWU and Tuks, who ended the log phase in first and second position, have no nominees for the Player that Rocks.”
Voting for the Player That Rocks award remains open until April 10, allowing fans to support their favorite players, including Fourie and Matthew Fortuin from the Eagles.
As the final approaches, excitement builds around the clash between NWU Eagles and UP-Tuks, with fans eager to see which team will emerge victorious in the 2026 Varsity Cup.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any last-minute changes or updates leading up to the final match.
