SAFA Second Division | 16 October 2026
NB La Masia produced a dramatic late finish to edge the University of Johannesburg 2-1 in the SAFA Second Division on Thursday. The Westbury-based side, playing under the MM Platinum banner, struck early to lead at the break before a see-saw second half swung on the finest of margins. UJ hauled themselves level just after the hour, only for NB La Masia to restore their advantage within two minutes and then settle the contest deep into stoppage time. It was a resilient, character-filled performance from the reigning Gauteng ABC Motsepe champions, who are learning the demands of South Africa’s third tier.
Fast Start, Frantic Finish
NB La Masia set the tone with an early opener inside the opening quarter of an hour, taking a deserved lead into half-time. The second period proved far more volatile. The complexion of the match shifted with a red card shortly before the hour, and in the immediate aftermath UJ found an equaliser to level the scores. The response from NB La Masia was emphatic and almost instant, a swift strike reclaiming the lead before the visitors could settle. From there it became a test of nerve, and the hosts held firm until an added-time flourish sealed the three points and sparked celebrations.
Building On A Title Season
Promotion from the Gauteng ABC Motsepe League as champions raised expectations around a club built on a community-first philosophy inspired by Barcelona’s famous academy. The step up to the SAFA Second Division is a significant one, and results like this, grinding out a win in a chaotic, momentum-swinging encounter, are the foundation of a successful adjustment. Winning the tight games, particularly those decided in stoppage time, is how newly promoted sides convert ambition into survival and more.
Final word
There was nothing comfortable about this victory, and perhaps that is what makes it valuable. NB La Masia absorbed a setback, answered it immediately, and found the resolve to win it at the death. For a club still finding its feet at this level, the mental fortitude on display matters as much as the three points. If they can carry that spirit forward, the Westbury outfit will be a tough proposition for anyone in the division this season.
