New Nedbank Cup champion guaranteed as Durban City and TS Galaxy set up historic final

A new name will be etched into South African football folklore when Durban City and TS Galaxy meet in the 2026 Nedbank Cup final, following two gripping semi-final encounters that underlined the competition’s unpredictability and enduring romance.

Neither side has lifted major silverware in their current era, yet both have navigated contrasting paths to reach the decisive fixture scheduled for May 2. Their progression not only ends the spirited runs of lower-tier challengers but also sets the stage for a defining moment in the careers of two ambitious coaches seeking their first major honour.

Durban City edged past Casric Stars with a narrow 1-0 victory, while TS Galaxy survived a stern test against Milford FC, ultimately advancing via a penalty shoot-out after a 1-1 stalemate. The outcomes ensured that the tournament’s fairytale narratives would fall just short of the final, though not without leaving a lasting impression.

Lower-tier dreams fall just short

For Casric Stars and Milford FC, the semi-finals marked the end of remarkable campaigns that captured the imagination of supporters across the country. Both sides demonstrated resilience and tactical discipline throughout the competition, proving that the gap between divisions can be bridged on the cup stage.

Casric Stars, in particular, built their reputation on giant-killing exploits, eliminating top-flight opposition along the way. Their journey included a memorable triumph over Orlando Pirates and another impressive victory against AmaZulu. However, they were unable to produce a third upset, falling narrowly to a disciplined Durban City side.

Milford FC’s route to the semi-finals was equally compelling. Notably, they navigated multiple knockout ties without losing a match in regulation time. Their campaign featured three draws and a single outright win, supplemented by two successful penalty shoot-outs. Their eventual defeat to TS Galaxy from the spot marked the first time they had lost a shoot-out in the competition, having previously maintained a perfect record.

Despite their exits, both teams leave the tournament with enhanced reputations, having pushed established sides to their limits and contributed to one of the most competitive Nedbank Cup editions in recent memory.

Durban City edge closer to elusive glory

Durban City’s progression to the final carries significant historical weight. The club, including its previous identity as Maritzburg United, has never secured a major trophy despite coming close on multiple occasions.

Their latest semi-final victory, secured by a solitary goal, highlighted a team built on defensive organisation and patience. It was a performance reflective of their broader campaign, where control and composure have often taken precedence over flair.

The club’s past near-misses remain fresh in memory. They fell short in the 2018 Nedbank Cup final and again in the 2019 Telkom Knockout decider. Now, with another opportunity within reach, the question arises whether this iteration of the team can finally break the cycle.

Their journey this season has been anchored by consistency at the back. Goalkeeper Darren Keet and defender Siphamandla Ncanana have been ever-present figures, each accumulating over 450 minutes in the competition, underscoring the defensive solidity that has carried the team to the brink of success.

TS Galaxy’s resilience shines through

TS Galaxy’s path to the final has been defined by resilience and composure under pressure. Their semi-final clash against Milford FC proved to be one of the most dramatic fixtures of the tournament.

After conceding their first goal of the campaign, Galaxy were forced to respond, eventually levelling the match before holding their nerve in the penalty shoot-out. The victory not only secured their place in the final but also maintained their reputation as a side capable of thriving in high-stakes situations.

Victor Letsoalo’s contribution proved crucial once again, with his goal taking him into a group of leading scorers in this year’s competition. Meanwhile, the team’s defensive record remains noteworthy, with the semi-final goal conceded being the only one they have allowed throughout their cup run.

Galaxy’s previous Nedbank Cup success adds an intriguing dimension to the final. Their 2019 triumph, achieved as a lower-division side against Kaizer Chiefs, remains one of the most iconic moments in the competition’s history. That experience could prove invaluable as they prepare for another shot at glory.

Coaches on the cusp of history

Beyond the teams themselves, the final represents a landmark opportunity for the men on the touchline. Durban City’s Pitso Dladla and TS Galaxy’s Adnan Beganovic are both on the verge of securing the first major trophies of their managerial careers.

Their journeys to this point have been shaped by tactical adaptability and the ability to extract maximum performance from their squads. The final will not only test their strategic acumen but also their capacity to manage the psychological demands of a high-profile occasion.

With both coaches seeking a breakthrough moment, the contest promises to be as much a battle of minds as it is of players on the pitch.

A final shaped by history and form

The upcoming clash also carries an intriguing head-to-head dynamic. Durban City hold a perfect record against TS Galaxy, having won all three previous meetings between the sides across competitions. This includes a 2-1 victory in the 2025 Nedbank Cup as well as two league wins this season, both by a 2-0 margin.

Such statistics may offer a psychological edge, yet cup finals often defy historical patterns. Galaxy’s proven ability to rise to the occasion, particularly in knockout football, suggests that past results will carry limited weight once the match begins.

From a broader perspective, the 2026 Nedbank Cup has been defined by competitiveness and drama. A record number of matches have required extra time, while penalty shoot-outs have been a recurring feature, reflecting the fine margins separating teams.

The tournament has produced 69 goals across 30 matches, averaging just over two goals per game. While not the highest-scoring edition, it has compensated with tension and closely contested encounters.