Great start by the South African teams
The South African Women’s Hockey team is a force to be reckoned with, securing their place in the semifinals, while the Men’s team dominates their group, on the verge of securing their spot in the semifinals too. A remarkable display of skill and determination has characterized their journey so far, with both teams triumphing in their opening matches. The Women’s team exhibited an impressive performance, triumphing over Zimbabwe 10-0 and Nigeria 4-0. Likewise, the Men’s team displayed their prowess, defeating Zimbabwe 10-0 and Nigeria 8-2. The teams now enjoy a well-deserved break at the Tuks University sports grounds in Pretoria before the crucial final group games commence tomorrow.
The semifinals, scheduled for Friday, November 3rd, will be the deciding ground for the qualifying teams in both the men’s and women’s categories. With a spot for the continental champions at the 2024 Olympics at stake, the anticipation for the final matches on Sunday, November 5th, is palpable.
Women's Commanding Victories Propel Them to Semifinals
The South African women launched their campaign with a stellar performance against Zimbabwe, leaving an indelible mark on the field. Early warning shots from Quanita Bobbs and Stephanie Botha set the stage for an onslaught, as Bobbs cracked the defense with a powerful reverse stick strike, swiftly followed by goals from Ntsopa Mokoena and Tarryn Lombard, setting the score at 3-0 in their favour.
Undeterred by a lightning delay, the South Africans continued their relentless pursuit, securing a 10-0 victory with a remarkable hat-trick from Bobbs and a final goal by Marie Louw. In their second match against Nigeria, the South African women exhibited their unwavering determination, sealing their semifinal spot with a resolute 4-0 triumph. While the victory stands, the team aims to elevate their performance levels in the upcoming semifinals after a well-deserved day of rest.
South African Women secure passage into the Semi-Finals after a 4-0 victory against Nigeria. https://t.co/es3QNFgu7Y#HockeyInvites #EnRouteToParis #MotiMoves #ZunaidMoti pic.twitter.com/9FMxQD4Xxt
— SA Hockey (@SA_Hockey) October 30, 2023
Men's Team Shows Resilience and Dominance in Group Stage
Inspired by the successes of their fellow athletes, the South African Hockey Men delivered a commanding performance, defeating Zimbabwe 9-0 in a thrilling opener. Skipper Dayaan Cassiem led the charge with an early goal, while Matthew Guise-Brown’s exceptional penalty corner strike further solidified their lead. Bili Ntuli’s hat-trick and goals from other key players culminated in an impressive 9-0 victory, marking an outstanding start to the tournament.
In their second match against Nigeria, amidst challenging weather conditions, the South African men maintained their composure, securing an 8-2 victory. Despite the initial fervor of the Nigerian team, South Africa’s strategic counterattacks and consistent goal-scoring prowess propelled them to a dominant win. With their place in the semifinals almost secured, the South African men now focus on their final group game against Uganda, poised to secure their spot at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
SA Hockey Men put one foot in Semi Final at the African Hockey Road to Paris 2024 Qualifier https://t.co/A24e4a3QIA#EnRouteToParis #HockeyInvites pic.twitter.com/HDZUkEKm35
— SA Hockey (@SA_Hockey) October 30, 2023
Final push to claim an Olympics Spot
Both teams now enjoy a well-earned break, rejuvenating their spirits for the challenges ahead. While the women prepare for their upcoming semifinal clash, the men gear up for their crucial final group game against Uganda. Excitement fills the air as South Africa’s hockey journey to Paris 2024 continues to captivate South African supporters.
Here is the stat of the game on Day 2 at the African Hockey Road to Paris Qualifier #enroutetoparis pic.twitter.com/8EzSp18waZ
— SA Hockey (@SA_Hockey) October 30, 2023
For More South African Sport News: Sport South Africa Home Page
For More South African Hockey News:
South Africa’s 2024 Olympics Journey Begins at the African Hockey Road to Paris tournament
South African U21 Men’s Hockey Team Set to Compete in the Sultan of Johor Cup in Malaysia
