TS Galaxy secure goalkeeper Ira Eliezer Tape on new three-year contract

TS Galaxy have agreed a new three-year contract with goalkeeper Ira Eliezer Tape, ending uncertainty over his future before the start of the 2026/27 season.

Tape, 28, was due to become a free agent after his previous deal expired, prompting speculation during the off-season about whether he would remain with the Betway Premiership club. Galaxy, known as the Rockets, have now acted to retain the Ivory Coast international until 2029.

The goalkeeper joined TS Galaxy in 2024 from Ethiopian club Hadia Hosaina and has since established himself as a regular presence in the side. He has made 63 appearances for the club, keeping 18 clean sheets during that time.

His new agreement provides continuity for Galaxy in goal as they prepare for the upcoming campaign. Tape has been the club’s established first-choice goalkeeper since arriving in South Africa, and his record of appearances and clean sheets has made him a central part of the team.

Tape’s career began at the renowned ASPIRE Academy, where he developed before moving into senior football. He later played for Societe Omnisports de l’Armee and FC San Pedro before continuing his career in East Africa with Hadia Hosaina.

He has also represented the senior Ivory Coast national team twice. His international experience adds to the competition for the goalkeeper’s position at TS Galaxy, with the club having several other options available for the 2026/27 season.

Tape will face competition from Nigerian goalkeeper Kayode Bankole, as well as Melusi Mathebula, Sipho Gift Maseti and Nkosingabele Madela. The group will compete for the place between the posts when the new campaign begins.

For TS Galaxy, securing Tape’s future removes one of the main contract questions surrounding the squad during the off-season. The club have chosen to underline his importance by committing to a further three years, following his first two seasons in the Betway Premiership.

The deal also means Tape will remain with the Rockets after becoming an ever-present figure in goal since his 2024 move. His 63 appearances and 18 clean sheets form the basis of his contribution so far, while the new contract gives him the opportunity to build further on those figures.

With Tape retained and four other goalkeepers competing for selection, TS Galaxy now have a settled group from which to choose as preparations continue for the 2026/27 season.