TS Galaxy Start 2026 With Convincing Win Over Marumo Gallants

TS Galaxy secured a strong start to the new year with a 2-0 victory over Marumo Gallants at Mbombela Stadium on Wednesday, January 21. The win extended their unbeaten run in the Betway Premiership to four matches and moved them up to fifth place, just three points outside the CAF continental spots. Manager Adnan Beganovic’s side carried momentum from an undefeated end to 2025, including a goalless draw against Kaizer Chiefs in their final match of last year.

The first half offered chances for both sides, with Marumo Gallants creating the earliest threat. Msindisi Ndlovu’s long-range effort narrowly missed the target, while TS Galaxy responded through Mpho Mvelase, whose strike was dragged wide. Junior Zindonga also went close before halftime, miscuing a low cross during a counter-attack. Both teams tested the post early in the second half, with Mvelase and Victor Letsoalo seeing their attempts denied by the frame.

TS Galaxy broke the deadlock in the 57th minute when Zindonga was brought down in the penalty area by Kagiso Mlambo. Substitute Mory Keita stepped up and calmly converted the spot-kick to give the Rockets the lead. Ten minutes later, Zindonga created the second goal with a precise low cross, allowing Letsoalo to finish past Mlambo and double the advantage. Late in the match, Zindonga nearly added a third, but Mlambo, deputising for the suspended Washington Arubi, tipped the curling effort over the bar.

The result highlighted TS Galaxy’s attacking depth, with substitutes making an immediate impact. Keita and Letsoalo demonstrated composure in front of goal, while Zindonga’s creativity was pivotal in both scoring opportunities. The win solidified Galaxy’s position in the top eight and reinforced their ambitions for continental qualification.

Marumo Gallants remain in 11th place, continuing a winless run that dates back to the end of last year. They face ongoing pressure to turn results around as they compete to climb out of the lower midtable, with Gallants tied on points with Golden Arrows and Siwelele.

TS Galaxy line-up: I. Tape, L. Motaung, M. Mahlangu, I. Salatiel, S. Letsoenyo, J. Dlamini (M. Mbunjana 46′), S. Maduna (O. Moletshe 68′), J. Zindoga, M. Mvelase (N. Nkosi 88′), S. Mahlambi (M. Keita 46′), M. Ouamri (V. Letsoalo 46′).

Marumo Gallants line-up: K. Mlambo, L. Mabotja, E. Agnikoi, M. Sikhosana, M. Ndlovu (T. Dhludhlu 77′), M. Mpambaniso (S. Mbhele 77′), I. Bance, S. Nhlapo (K. Mhlongo 77′), K. Ncube, K. Otladisa, P. Ndlondlo (T. Motloung 66′).