Nedbank Cup: TS Galaxy Coach States Mamelodi Sundowns Decision That Surprises Him

• TS Galaxy head coach Adnan Beganović has opened up on what surprised him the most when they defeated Mamelodi Sundowns in the Nebbank Cup
• The European coach was happy his team were able to knock out one the favourites to win the South African domestic league tournament
• He also mentioned a decision Cardoso took that made him happy and how the approach he implemented against the Pretorian giants

TS Galaxy head coach Adnan Beganović has mentioned what caught him by surprise when his team faced Mamelodi Sundowns in the Round of 16 of the Nedbank Cup on Saturday, February 21, 2026.

The Rockets defeated Miguel Cardoso's side, who are coming from a win against MC Alger in the CAF Champions League and also a victory over Orlando Pirates in the Betway Premiership, 2-0 at the Solomon Mahlangu Stadium.

Galaxy have a chance to win the Nedbank Cup this season, as the three top sides in the competition have all been eliminated.

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Beganović explains why he was surprised

Beganović expressed surprise at Cardoso making ten lineup changes in their Nedbank Cup clash against Mamelodi Sundowns.

Many were taken aback when the Portuguese tactician overhauled nearly the entire squad that had played against Orlando Pirates just days earlier in a league match victory, with Nuno Santos being the only player who retained his place in the starting line up.

“I was expecting around five changes, but then I saw ten, including a new goalkeeper and only Nuno Santos remaining from the previous lineup,” Beganović said.

“It was a surprise. The players are all talented, but introducing ten new faces changes the dynamic on the field."

The European mentor expected a few changes in Masandawana's line-up and was pleased Cardoso opted not to start Ronwen Williams in goal, with Denis Onyango taking his place.

“I was particularly happy Williams wasn’t in goal. It affects the defensive style—you can press higher because Onyango isn’t as comfortable playing out from the back as Williams."

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Beganović shares gameplan for Sundowns' game

Beganović also explained the approach he used and also what he got from reviewing Sundowns' matches against MC Alger and Orlando Pirates.

“We implemented a high press, believing we could regain possession near their goal, which led to our opening goal," he added.

“I reviewed their last two games against Alger and Orlando Pirates and noticed players complaining about injuries toward the final ten minutes.

"I expected some rotation, but not to this extent. It gave us more chances to control the ball, and we capitalised on it. It was unfortunate for them."

Here is what fans are saying on social media about TS Galaxy's coach's comment on Cardoso making 10 changes in the starting

Sbongile Balbo

I thought Sundowns had quality in every department, but they proved me wrong yesterday.

Katlego Izen Coetzee

He’s overexcited

Lesiba Mogale

I support Coach Cardoso to do that, our schedule is hectic.

Read also

How losing his dad inspired ex-Chiefs player to succeed and gift his mum a house

Joseph Makha

He wants Cardoso's job, said he can do better.

Mbongwa Masuku

They have always been our hoodoo team. I recall the time when Rhulani was at the helm

Peter Seboloka

De problem is coach DAT man is destroying sundowns complectly.

Ouaddou blasts Pirates stars

Briefly News earlier reported that Abdeslam Ouaddou slammed Orlando Pirates players ahead of their mouthwatering clash against Mamelodi Sundowns in the Betway Premiership.

The French-Moroccan is not happy with his players despite their recent positive results in the Betway Premiership, and they are also on top of the league standings.

Source: Briefly News