TS Galaxy Chairman Tim Sukazi eyes second Nedbank Cup glory after "transformative" 2019 triumph

The Rockets famously beat Kaizer Chiefs in the 2019 final while competing in the National First Division and have since become an established Betway Premiership side.

This season though they have endured a difficult campaign in the Betway Premiership and are flirting with relegation in 12th place on the standings with four games to play.

Their league form led Sukazi to part ways with head coach Adnan Beganovic, leaving Bernard Parker in charge for their final league matches of the season and Saturday's final at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium.

Speaking ahead of the match, Sukazi explained that despite their troubles, the club is poised to lift the Nedbank Cup trophy this weekend, following their defeat to Stellenbosch in the 2023 Carling Knockout Cup.

He said on IOL: "The success in 2019 definitely transformed the club. In 2019, TS Galaxy was in the second division, and we remain the only club to have won the Nedbank Cup from the lower ranks.

"So, upon the conclusion of that game, and in view of the opponents that we faced then, we thought the club defined itself. The project told us where the club belongs, and where it should be."

"As I stand here, I have certainly diagnosed where the problem is. I have since identified a strategy that will also take us forward," Sukazi added.

On his appointment of Parker ahead of the final, the Chairman stated: "Probably South Africa is yet to see the best of Bernard Parker in his coaching qualities – I can say that without fear or contradiction. He's someone that I know, and I have come a long way with.

"I hold him in high regard personally. It is my wish that the legend of our game, if possible, finds opportunities in the game itself – especially someone like Parker who has served the game. I hope others come to the fore as well."

"Our boys have to show up, give it their best, and hopefully we'll come away with the trophy, concluded Sukazi.