TFGSoccerClub writer DYLAN APPOLIS takes a look at five players who could fire TS Galaxy to glory when they take on Kaizer Chiefs in the Nedbank Cup final at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday.
Terrence Mashego
The former Mthatha Bucks right back has had a stellar campaign with the National First Division (NFD) side and has featured 35 times across all competitions, while missing just two games for Galaxy.
At the age of 20, Mashego has the ability to influence his defence, as well as help his side on attack moving forward, which has earned him a nomination for the Nedbank Cup Most Promising Player award.
Nation Ndlovu
The 25-year-old defensive midfielder will have another chance to prove his worth, after signing for Chippa United before being released by the Absa Premiership outfit and then joining Galaxy.
Ndlovu played every minute of Galaxy’s Nedbank Cup campaign and has managed to grab himself a goal in the process. He has the ability to be rock-solid in the midfield, and his experience will prove crucial when they come up against Amakhosi.
Sihle Nduli
The 23-year-old has been one of Galaxy’s standout performers in his breakthrough season, while playing a commanding role in the NFD for the club in this campaign.
After battling for first-team football at Cape Town All Stars last season, the attacking midfielder has rediscovered his form at his new club, after featuring 28 times for Galaxy across all competitions this season.
Sizwe Mdlinzo
Mdlinzo, who is affectionately known as ‘The Danger man’ is one of a few players who have experience playing in the top flight and top-flight opposition. His experience and ability as a creator and proven goal-scorer will play a vital role going up against the quality of Chiefs.
The 27-year-old box-to-box player has been superb for Galaxy this campaign and has proved his worth and quality in the NFD, as well as Galaxy’s road to the cup final.
Zakhele Lepasa
The 22-year-old, who is currently on loan from Orlando Pirates, will be highly motivated to take on Amakhosi and show his parent club his ability on a big stage.
Lepasa has impressed and has been in fine form while on loan at the club, and has already bagged three goals in the competition, despite spending the first half of the season on loan at Stellenbosch FC, where he barely featured for the NFD champions.
Since making the switch to Galaxy during the January transfer window, Lepasa has managed to score a total of eight goals in 10 starts across all competitions, which has earned him a nomination for both the Nedbank Cup Player of the Tournament and Most Promising Player award.
