The stage is set for an epic showdown as arch-rivals FNB Maties and FNB Ikeys collide in the 2025 FNB Varsity Cup final at a sold-out Danie Craven Stadium.
With pride, history, and silverware on the line, the Maroon Machine will look to crown their 150th anniversary in style, while the Ikey Tigers aim to spoil the party with an upset for the ages.
Maties, the tournament frontrunners with 30 points from six wins in seven games, come in as favourites—not only for their consistency but also their psychological edge after edging UCT 31-24 in a thrilling fifth-round clash. Yet head coach Kabamba Floors is under no illusions.
“History means nothing on finals night. Yes, we’re at home, yes, we’ve beaten them before—but this is a final, and finals demand something deeper. Ikeys are a side full of fight, and we’ll need to be at our very best,” said Floors.
“Being in the final is a privilege because we worked hard to get there, but at the end of the day it means nothing if you don’t lift the trophy.
“We placed a lot of emphasis on the match on Monday. It’s a Cape derby and a massive year for us – the Maties men and Maties women both qualified for the final for the first time in Varsity Sports. The 150th year’s slogan is a legacy that inspires.
“The history set the platform for the legacy that inspires to build a new generation and a new future. Inclusivity is a big part of what we are doing to uphold the performance of Maties Rugby with the 150th year anniversary.
“Congratulations to the ladies for winning the title, so Monday is a big occasion for us to follow through. We are not underestimating Ikeys. We know they are a good outfit, and we are aware that it’s going to be a tough encounter and as Maties we are looking forward to the challenge on Monday,” adds Floors.
UCT, who finished third with 26 points, have grown stronger with each outing. Captain Keagan Blanckenberg has led from the front, his fiery leadership sparking belief across the park.
Maties skipper Carel van der Merwe, stepping up admirably in injured Ezekiel Ngobeni’s absence, will be key in anchoring the home side’s hopes.
Expect bone-crunching tackles, tactical chess, and unrelenting passion as two of South Africa’s greatest rugby institutions vie for FNB Varsity Cup glory in what promises to be a final for the ages.
Starting XV: Prince Mulea, CJ Erasmus, Ammaar Burton, Zuko Poswa, Carel Van Der Merwe, Gcina Puzi, Luan Botha, Ethan Snyman, Mckyle Volmoer, Christiaan van Heerden Smith, Dylan Miller, CJ Marx, Grant De Jager, Ryan Manuel, Elridge Jack.
Replacements: Luthando Makula, Janlu Basson, Jason Johnson, Michael Chettoa, Dante Burger, Warrick Jones, Samuel Badenhorst, Jean-Marc Trichard.
