In a historic night at the Peter Mokaba Stadium, Durban City FC secured their first-ever Nedbank Cup title with a thrilling 2-1 victory over TS Galaxy.
The “Team of Choice" showcased immense character, overturning a first-half deficit to etch their names into South African football folklore on May 2,2026.
Match summary
The final was a tale of two halves. While TS Galaxy dominated the early proceedings and looked poised to repeat their 2019 heroics, Durban City's second-half adjustments, led by interim coach Pitso Dladla, proved to be the difference.
This victory marks a monumental achievements as Durban City becomes the first club from KwaZulu-Natal to lift the Nedbank Cup trophy at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane.
The turning points
The match began as a nightmare for City. Despite holding possession, they fell behind in the 43rd minute under bizarre circumstances. After a powerful header from Galaxy's Victor Letsoalo was parried by goalkeeper Darren Keet, the ball took a deflection off Durban City striker Jean Lwamba and trickled into his own net. The own goal sent the Rockets into the tunnel with a narrow lead and momentum on their side.
However, the tide turned when coach Dladla made a bold move at the restart, introducing Luphumlo Sifumba for Haashim Domingo. The change immediately injected pace and creativity into the field.
In the 57th minute, Sifumba found space on the left and whipped in a low cross that captain Mfanafuthi Mkhize clinically finished at the far post to level the score.
The narrative of the match was completed by Jean Lwamba, who found redemption after his earlier error. Lwamba struck the winner in the 71st minute by receiving a ball from the influential Sifumba and unleashing a sensational half-volley from the edge of the area. The strike curled into the net, sparking wild celebrations in the stands and securing the lead for good.
Starting lineups and tactics
Durban City relied on a veteran presence in goal with Darren Keet, supported by a backline featuring Gcaba, Ncanana, Mkhize, and Mashego. The midfield engine room was powered by Poggenpoel, Mokwena, and Jurgens, while Maseko and Lwamba led the offensive charge.
TS Galaxy countered with a disciplined structure, utilizing the agility of Ira in goal and the defensive stability of Letsoenyo, Silva, Mvelase, and Kakora. Their midfield, anchored by Mbunjana and Maduna, looked to feed Mahlambi and Letsoalo on the break, a strategy that worked effectively until Durban City's tactical shifts in the second period neutralized their threat.
A historic milestone
For Durban City, this win represents a moment of true redemption. Having previously fallen short in final appearances, this victory validates the club's new era and vision.
While TS Galaxy failed to capitalize on their first-half dominance, they remain a respected force in South African cup competitions. With this victory, Durban City claims the prestigious title along with the R7 million prize money and a coveted spot in the next season's CAF Confederation Cup.