TS Galaxy secured their place in the Nedbank Cup final after a dramatic 4-3 penalty shootout victory over Milford FC, following a 1-1 draw after extra time in a tense semifinal clash on Sunday.
Milford struck early through Siphosethu Ndlabi, whose clever backheel finish in the 11th minute gave his side the perfect start. Ndlabi nearly doubled the lead just four minutes later, but his free header went wide.
TS Galaxy responded with attacking intent, creating chances of their own, including a free header in the 20th minute that narrowly missed the target.
The second half saw Galaxy introduce Mbunjana and Zulu, a move that injected energy into their attack. Mbunjana came close in the 51st minute with a free header from a corner, but failed to convert.
Milford made a triple substitution shortly after, bringing on Mbunga, Philander, and Gxakoshe in the 54th minute. However, it was Galaxy who equalised just a minute later, as Victor rose to meet a cross with a well-taken header to level matters at 1-1.
Philander had a chance to restore Milford’s lead in the 79th minute, but his effort went wide, sending the match into extra time.
Both sides had opportunities in extra time, with Zulu missing a free header early on and Milford failing to capitalize on a promising chance in the 103rd minute. Fatigue began to take its toll, with Mahlambi forced off due to cramps.
With no winner after 120 minutes, the match was decided on penalties.
The shootout proved to be a tense affair, with both teams trading blows. Milford goalkeeper Mfanufikile Madondo, who had earlier come on for the injured Siphamandla Hleza, confidently converted his penalty. However, crucial misses from Cele and Philander proved costly for Milford.
Galaxy held their nerve, and in sudden death, it was Fish who stepped up to convert the decisive penalty, sealing a 4-3 shootout victory for TS Galaxy.
TS Galaxy head coach Adnan praised his team’s resilience after the match, saying,
“I am so proud of my players.”
Milford FC’s coach remained positive despite the defeat, stating,
“I am not disappointed with how we played, we played quite well; it’s not a train smash.”
TS Galaxy now advance to the final, where they will face Durban City, as they move one step closer to lifting the trophy. PSL is set to announce date , kick off time and venue for the final on Thursday.
Image: GoalMzansi