TS Galaxy are through to the Nedbank Cup final after a thrilling penalty shootout win. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
TS Galaxy head coach Adnan Beganovic has leaned on past heartbreak as motivation after guiding his side into the Nedbank Cup final, with history and redemption now firmly within reach.
Galaxy secured their place in the showpiece after a tense semifinal victory on penalties, setting up a clash with Durban City FC.
It is a moment that reflects both resilience and opportunity, particularly for a squad looking to write its own chapter in the club’s history. But for Beganovic, the occasion is shaped by experience — and the memory of coming up short.
“Yes, it’s my second final and we lost the other one on penalties and it was painful because we presented better football on the day but we kept working and dreaming for another opportunity and we will try our best to take this opportunity make history again like the team of 2019.”
That painful reference points back to 2023, when Galaxy suffered defeat in the Carling Knockout final against Stellenbosch FC in Durban. On that day, despite strong performances, they fell at the final hurdle — a reminder of how fine the margins can be in knockout football.
It is a contrast to their most iconic triumph.
In 2019, Galaxy stunned Kaizer Chiefs to lift the Nedbank Cup, securing their only top-flight trophy and cementing their place in South African football folklore.
That victory remains a reference point — not just for the club’s identity, but for what is possible when opportunity meets execution. Now, a new group stands on the brink of repeating that achievement.
Yet, while the cup run has injected belief, Galaxy’s league campaign has been far less convincing.
A difficult second round has seen the Rockets lose six of their last seven matches, dropping to 11th position in the Betway Premiership standings. What once looked like a push for the top half has instead turned into a battle for consistency.
Beganovic has acknowledged the struggles but remains firm in his belief.
“Yes, it’s been like that, second round we’ve struggled, in some games we haven’t been lucky, in some we concede late goals and drop points but I can guarantee that we will finish in a top eight spot.”
The explanation points to fine margins — late goals conceded, missed chances, and moments that have swung results the wrong way. It is a narrative that suggests performance levels have not always matched outcomes.
Attention now shifts quickly back to the league, where a clash against Polokwane City presents an immediate opportunity to respond.
The timing could prove significant.
With a cup final looming and league ambitions still alive, Galaxy find themselves balancing two defining objectives — the pursuit of silverware and the need for stability.
Momentum, confidence and execution will now determine whether this season becomes one of frustration or fulfillment. For Beganovic and his squad, the path is clear — finish strong, and ensure that this final tells a different story.