TS Galaxy has secured a place in the 2026 Nedbank Cup final after a grueling semi-final victory over Motsepe Foundation Championship side Milford FC on Sunday afternoon.
The Rockets emerged victorious with a 4-3 win on penalties following a 1-1 draw after extra time at the Solomon Mahlangu Stadium.
A tale of two halves
The match began with an unexpected twist as the underdog visitors took an early lead. Despite TS Galaxy dominating possession in the opening stages, it was Milford who struck first. In the 11th minute, Siphosethu Ndlabi silenced the home crowd with a clever back-heel finish, capitalising on a sharp delivery from Bulelani Sigomoshe.
Trailing at the break, TS Galaxy coach Adnan Beganovic made decisive changes, introducing Veluyeke Zulu and Mlungisi Mbunjana to bolster the attack. The pressure paid off in the 55th minute when Victor Letsoalo rose to meet a pinpoint cross from Seluleko Mahlambi, heading home the equaliser to restore parity. Despite several late chances for both sides – including a goal-line save by Milford's Siphamandla Hleza – the game remained deadlock through 120 minutes of play.
The penalty shootout
With the score tied at 1-1 after extra time, the match moved to a tense penalty shootout. Milford made a strategic goalkeeping change before the spot-kicks, bringing on Mfanufikile Madondo, but it was TS Galaxy who held their nerve in sudden death to seal a 4-3 victory.
Path to the final
TS Galaxy's journey to the 2026 final has been marked by resilience and defensive discipline. Prior to this semi-final, the Rockets had not conceded a single goal in the tournament. They began their campaign with a 1-0 win over Marumo Gallants in the Round of 32, followed by a commanding 2-0 victory against heavyweights Mamelodi Sundowns in the Round of 16.
In the quarter-finals, they maintained their momentum with a 2-0 win over Jacksa Spears before finally overcoming Milford FC in this weekend's penalty thriller.
Looking ahead: The championship clash
By reaching the final, TS Galaxy has set up a high-stakes encounter against Durban City, who defeated Casric Stars in the other semi-final.
The victory marks TS Galaxy's first return to the Nedbank Cup final since their historic debut in 2019, where they became the first lower-division side to lift the trophy.