Wits University Football Club produced a determined performance to secure a crucial 3–1 victory over Jomo Cosmos in the ABC Motsepe League, earning three much-needed points, but remaining in 11th place on the league.

The match began at a tense tempo, with both sides eager to assert control early on. Possession was evenly shared in the opening exchanges, with each team promising opportunities without finding a breakthrough. For much of the first half, the contest remained finely balanced with neither side willing to concede ground.

Read more: Seniors shine at first Gogo soccer tourney in Newlands

The deadlock was finally broken in the 33rd minute, when Wits left-back Kaihil Cloete rose to meet a perfectly weighted cross from left winger Mncedisi Seabi, steering the ball home to give the home side a 1–0 lead. The goal shifted the momentum as they capitalised almost immediately. Just three minutes later, striker Mxolisi Mthiya raced through on goal and calmly finished past the Jomo Cosmos goalkeeper to double the advantage.

Those two quick strikes put Wits firmly in control heading into the break, with Jomo Cosmos struggling to contain their opponents’ attacking rhythm.

However, the second half told a different story. Jomo Cosmos had renewed urgency, pushing forward with greater intensity and creating several chances as they sought a way back into the match. Their hard work was rewarded late in the game when the referee awarded a penalty. Striker Emilio Abreu made no mistake from the spot, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to reduce the deficit to 2–1.

The away side’s sense of a comeback was shortlived, however, with Wits right winger Takudzwa Kadzutu striking soon after, restoring the two goal cushion and effectively sealing the contest at 3–1.

Also read: Keeping healthy with soccer

Jomo Cosmos head coach Gerald Mtshali acknowledged his team’s improved second-half display, but highlighted that defensive lapses proved costly. “I think we had a better second half. We conceded soft goals in the first half, and then we recouped. We could have scored an equaliser, but unfortunately we did not. The third goal killed us, but we created chances and we could have score two or three. We will build on that momentum going forward.” Mtshali added that his team defended poorly in the first half, and that much work needed to be done in improving for the next match and get a win.

Wits coach Thando Zulu praised his players for their discipline and mental strength, particularly in moments when they were under pressure. “Credit to the players. Coming into this game, we knew it would be difficult because they were just one point behind us. We were well prepared, and the previous performance gave us confidence. Even in the second half, when we didn’t have the ball, the players kept their heads. It was clear what everyone wanted.”

Zulu emphasised the significance of the result for a team still battling to climb the standings. He noted that they are not in the position that they are supposed to be in. “Some games have been unfortunate, and we’ve had many penalties against us this season, but wins like this give confidence. The boys feel good, and that helps us prepare better for the next opposition. There are still things to fix, but this is a very good result for us.”

Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration!