TS Galaxy pulled off a remarkable 1-0 victory over Mamelodi Sundowns at Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday night, handing the reigning champions their first defeat in 10 league games.
This result marked the end of Sundowns’ impressive 10-match winning streak in the Betway Premiership, as they continue their pursuit of an eighth consecutive league title. Incredibly, no other South African club has ever won the championship more than twice in a row.
Notwithstaning the performance of his players, it’s time to give TS Galaxy’s head coach, Adnan Beganovic, his flowers. The tactician has now gone 12 matches unbeaten since taking the reins at the club.
Under his leadership, the Rockets pulled off a shock 1-0 win over Sundowns, stretching their impressive run that includes seven wins and five draws in all competitions. Their gritty performance against the Premiership leaders came on the back of a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Chippa United.
Beganovic, who replaced German coach Sead Ramovic last November after he departed for Tanzanian side Young Africans, has breathed new life into Galaxy.
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The 41-year-old has now masterminded some big results and continues to impress with his tactical approach and the resilience of his players.
Speaking after the game, the Bosnian mentor said, “This is unbelievable. Sundowns have so many great players and we beat them,” said Beganovic as he struggled to hold back tears.
“I am so proud of my players and all credit to them. This was their third league match in seven days and yet they were full of energy and passion throughout.”
This defeat also marked the first loss for Mamelodi Sundowns under Portuguese coach Miguel Cardoso, who replaced the sacked Manqoba Mngqithi just two months ago.
“We dominated the first half, but Galaxy defended well. After half-time we ran out of energy,” said Cardoso, who led Tunisian giants Esperance to the 2024 CAF Champions League final.
“Now we must look forward to our next match and work harder. We will rise even stronger after this setback.”
The Rockets are next in action against Durban City in the Nedbank Cup Round of 16 on Friday, 14 February. Kick off at Chatsworth Stadium is set for 19:00.