“They Give Us A Tough Time”: Zwane On Tricky TS Galaxy Clash
Mamelodi Sundowns captain Themba Zwane has acknowledged that facing TS Galaxy is always an enormous challenge, recalling how the Mpumalanga side dented their league campaign last season.
In game 29 of last season at Mbombela Stadium, Galaxy raced into a 2–0 lead inside the first 20 minutes courtesy of goals from Victor Letsoalo and Sedwyn George in the seventh and 18th minutes respectively—a scoreline that momentarily boosted Orlando Pirates’ title hopes.
However, Sundowns rallied after the break, with Colombian striker Brayan León scoring twice in three minutes to bring the sides level by half-time.
With the two teams set to meet at the same venue on Tuesday, Zwane stressed that while Galaxy consistently make life difficult for Sundowns, the Brazilians are determined to walk away with all three points.
“To be honest, we have to win against them,” said Zwane.
“Every time we play them, they give us a tough time. We know it’s not going to be easy, but we have to push because we are fighting for three points.”
Tuesday’s encounter marks Sundowns’ first game of the Betway Premiership season. Their opening match against Marumo Gallants was postponed following the tragic passing of Jayden Adams, who recently represented Bafana Bafana at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.
Due to Adams’ passing, Sundowns delayed their pre-season trip to Austria and requested the postponement of their league opener.
Sundowns officially kicked off their competitive campaign over the weekend in the MTN8 quarter-finals against Polokwane City. They secured a 3-2 victory at Lucas Moripe Stadium thanks to a late winner from Cassius Mailula, who was set up by a clever back-heel pass from Zwane on his second return to the club.
Reflecting on the performances of new signings Mailula and Antonio van Wyk—who were both on the scoresheet against Rise and Shine—the veteran skipper commended their rapid integration into the squad.
“I think they are doing well,” said Zwane, who came off the bench against Polokwane.
“The guys welcomed them very well. We are happy to have them—they are quality players who are going to help the team a lot, which is why they are here. So far, so good. You could see during pre-season that they are gelling very well and pushing themselves.”
Sundowns will also be boosted by the return of León against Galaxy, after the forward served a suspension during the win over Polokwane City.
