VUT captain Malesela 'Jomo' Chokoe is expecting TUT and Wits to win their semifinals away from home on Thursday.

 

Having missed out on the Varsity Football play-offs, VUT's focus has shifted to the ABC Motsepe League, with their first fixture this weekend, but Chokoe will be watching the semifinals with interest.

 

Although the only team that VUT managed to beat this season out of the four semifinalists was TUT, Chokoe is expecting them to come out on top in their Tshwane derby against defending champions UP-Tuks.

 

The VUT skipper explained that VUT have what it takes to deal with UP-Tuks' direct style, and he expects them to take advantage of the flawless pitch at the Tuks Stadium.

 

"Tuks play route one long balls and TUT have tall defenders so they can deal with that. TUT can play good attacking football and that is a great pitch so they should be able to beat them," he said.

 

Although adverse weather conditions are expected to make it tough for both teams in Cape Town, Chokoe said that he believes Wits have what it takes to cause an upset against UWC due to their impressive defence.

 

"The Wits goalkeeper is very good and they are well organised at the back, they don't just concede goals.

 

"UWC are used to the conditions and that pitch is not good at all but it suits their style of play so you have to give them some credit," he warned.

 

The versatile Chokoe, who played up front at times for coach Gomma Masango this season, has moved back to central defender as they continue their USSA qualifiying bid.

 

"We have lost a few games so we have to beat the likes of Wits and Pukke if we want to qualify for Varsity Football next year," he said.