TS Galaxy edge Milford in penalty drama to secure Nedbank Cup final spot

TS Galaxy are one step away from reclaiming their knockout glory after overcoming a resilient Milford FC 4-3 on penalties following a 1-1 draw after extra time at the Solomon Mahlangu Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

#NedbankCup – RESULT:@TSGALAXYFC secure the victory after penalties against Milford to book their place in the #NedbankCup final alongside @DurbanCity_FC. pic.twitter.com/SFPBQci6Xi

— Official PSL (@OfficialPSL) April 5, 2026

The Rockets, who famously won the 2019 edition while still campaigning in the second tier, showed nerves of steel in the shootout to set up a final against Durban City FC. The Durban outfit secured their spot on Saturday with a 1-0 win over Casric Stars.

The home side was jolted early in the contest when the visitors took a surprise lead in the 11th minute. Siphosethu Ndlabi silenced the KwaMhlanga crowd, slotting home from close range after being teed up by Bulelani Sigomoshe.

TS Galaxy struggled to find their rhythm in the opening stanza, with MacBeth Mahlangu and Igor Silva both seeing headed efforts miss the target as they chased an equaliser before the break.

Victor Letsoalo Shines as TS Galaxy Edge Milford FC in Nedbank Cup Semis

Ira Tapé had to be alert to keep Galaxy in the game, but the momentum shifted significantly in the second half. Following a double substitution that saw Mlungisi Mbunjana and Veluyeke Zulu introduced, the Rockets finally found their breakthrough.

In the 55th minute, veteran marksman Victor Letsoalo rose highest in the centre of the box to meet a pinpoint cross from Seluleko Mahlambi, heading home into the bottom corner to level matters at 1-1.

Despite late pressure from both sides, including a flurry of chances in extra time for Milford’s Comfort Sibiya, neither team could find the winner in 120 minutes of football.

The lottery of penalties saw both teams struggle with the pressure. Galaxy missed two of their opening four kicks via Sedwyn George and Nhlanhla Mgaga, while Milford’s Olwethu Cele and Cheswyn Philander also failed to convert.

With the scores tied at 3-3 in the sudden-death phase, Galaxy goalkeeper Ira Tapé turned hero, diving low to his left to deny Comfort Sibiya. Patrick Fisher then stepped up to coolly slot the winning penalty, sending the Rockets into the final.

TS Galaxy will now look to secure their second Nedbank Cup title when they face Durban City FC. For Milford, it ends a brave run that once again proved the “Giant Killing” nature of South Africa’s premier cup competition.