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Varsity Football Spotlight: Sithembile Sandleni Leading From the Front

Sithembile Sandleni is proving that her impact extends beyond the classroom, bringing her leadership, discipline and determination to the football pitch for UJ Women’s Football. Born on 12 May 2003 and hailing from Nelspruit, Sandleni is a midfielder for the UJ senior women’s team. Away from football, she has also demonstrated her commitment to academic excellence, graduating with Honours in Sport Science in 2025.

© UJ Football

Sithembile Sandleni has emerged as one of UJ Women’s Football team’s key figures, combining her talent, determination and leadership to help guide the team to the 2026 Varsity Football final. Sandleni has shown that she is capable of stepping up when her team needs her most. Her latest standout performance came in the semi-final against defending champions UWC, where she was named Player of the Match after playing a crucial role in UJ’s victory.

For Sandleni, defeating UWC in open play made the achievement even more special.

“I’m excited and happy that we took out UWC during match play and not on penalties.”

The victory was also a testament to the responsibility Sandleni carried during the second half. Reflecting on the coach’s half-time message, she revealed that Coach Dunga challenged her to take charge and demonstrate exactly what she was capable of.

“Coach said I needed to lead and show everyone who I am.”

That message placed the responsibility firmly on her shoulders. Sandleni understood that she had to carry the team and help ensure they reached the final.

“I had to keep in mind that I have to carry the team and ensure that we reach the final, or else everything was going to lie on me if we didn’t.”

Rather than allowing the pressure to overwhelm her, Sandleni embraced the challenge and delivered when it mattered most. Her performance against UWC underlined not only her technical ability, but also the mentality and leadership required to perform on the biggest stage.

Now, with UJ through to the Varsity Football final, Sandleni is looking forward to the opportunity to compete for the title. With the biggest game still to come, her message is simple: she is excited, ready and cannot wait for the final.

Born: 12 May 2003

Hometown: Nelspruit, Mpumalanga

Team: UJ Women’s Football

Position: Midfielder

Academic Achievement: Honours in Sport Science, 2025

Writer: Jabulile Mabena
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