FNB Madibaz will put everything on the line against FNB UWC to win a spot in the FNB Varsity Shield final. The highly anticipated clash at the Madibaz Stadium in Gqeberha this afternoon is the result of an impressive 2025 campaign for the home team.
After suffering an opening-round defeat against FNB Varsity College, who eventually topped the competition standings, they fought back gamely to win six matches in a row to finish second on the log.
The semifinal is a rematch of last month’s thrilling round-robin encounter against UWC in which they scored a try after the final hooter to snatch a 27-24 victory.
By securing the runners-up spot, the Madibaz have also earned the right to face UJ (seventh in the Varsity Cup) in a promotion-relegation playoff in May.
Head coach David Manuel acknowledges the challenge UWC poses in the semis.
“There’s a bit of nervousness because they’re a quality side with a strong set piece and structured game plan, but they also thrive in unstructured play,” he said.
“We’ll need to be strategic in our decision-making and trust in the systems that have brought us success this season.”
Key to the home side’s chances will be prop Imibongo Mvuleni, whose impact was highlighted when he was named Player that Rocks in last week’s triumph over CPUT.
“I always strive to improve with each game, so being recognised in this way reassures me that I’m on the right track,” the frontrower, who weighs in at 115kg, said.
“The award also motivates me to keep working hard as we approach these crucial matches.”
“We were obviously disappointed to start with a loss, but we used it as motivation. We kept reminding ourselves of what was at stake and worked hard to ensure we didn’t experience that same disappointment again.”
He said playing their must-win encounter at home would make the occasion even more special as the support “is a huge boost”.
“I’m excited that we’ve reached this stage.”
Manuel still remembers how the player had joined the team from the university’s George campus.
“He sent me a picture of himself on WhatsApp, saying he wanted to be part of the squad.
“I told him he would need to move to Gqeberha to train with us, and since making that decision, his growth has been remarkable.”
The coach highlighted both his strength in scrummaging and his growing leadership role within the team.
“Our approach is to develop players holistically, and ‘Imi’ has exemplified that through his work ethic on and off the field,” Manuel said.
“As a group, we aim to inspire others and show what can be achieved with dedication and commitment.”
