Often referred to as the "cup of dreams", the competition has built a reputation for turning underdogs into giant-killers. Clubs from the lower divisions repeatedly rose to the occasion, challenging and even eliminating top-flight opposition in dramatic fashion.

Over the years, several shock results have defined the tournament, with sides such as Maluti FET College FC, Dondol Stars, University of Pretoria FC, and Baroka FC stunning the nation by defeating more established teams.

This season has been no different, delivering its fair share of surprises. Traditional powerhouses such as Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates, and Kaizer Chiefs all failed to reach the final.

Instead, the spotlight now falls on an unexpected showdown between Durban City FC and TS Galaxy FC, who will battle it out at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday evening.

Galaxy, champions in 2019, will be aiming to secure their second Nedbank Cup title, while Durban City head into their maiden final as underdogs, hoping to script yet another fairytale moment in the competition's rich history.

Road to the final

Last 32

Durban City 0-0 Chippa United FC (Durban City won 3-2 on penalties)

TS Galaxy 1-0 Marumo Gallants FC

Last 16

Upington City FC 0-0 Durban City (Durban City won 2-0 on penalties)

TS Galaxy 2-0 Mamelodi Sundowns

Quarter-finals

TS Galaxy 2-0 JDR Stars FC

Lamontville Golden Arrows FC 1-1 Durban City (Durban City won 5-4 on penalties)

Semi-finals

Durban City 1-0 Casric Stars FC

TS Galaxy 1-1 Milford FC (Galaxy won 4-3 on penalties)

Final

Durban City v TS Galaxy, Saturday, 2 May, 2026. Peter Mokaba Stadium

Stellenbosch can't afford to drop points, says coach Steve Barker