Final Pool Stage Recap | Windhoek, Namibia
Both the South African U21 Men and Women’s teams wrapped up the group stages of the Junior Africa Cup with victories to secure a 100% record, setting the stage for Friday’s double-header final against hosts Namibia. While both sides were already assured of qualification to the FIH Junior World Cup, the day’s results ensured momentum and bragging rights heading into the gold medal matches.
Women: South Africa 6–1 Namibia
With both teams safely through to the World Cup and final, the match between South Africa and Namibia had the feel of a high-quality dress rehearsal. Despite the lighter tension, the South African Women remained focused and clinical.
Teshawn de la Rey opened the scoring early, and Olympian Ntsopa Mokoena doubled the lead before half-time. In the third quarter, captain Caylin Maree netted a quick-fire brace, while fellow Olympian Paris-Gail Isaacs extended the advantage to 5–0.
Namibia found a breakthrough — the first goal conceded by South Africa all tournament — through Mia Karsten, but fittingly, it was de la Rey who completed the scoring with her second of the day.
South Africa head into Friday’s final with 33 goals scored and just one conceded, aiming to defend their African title and head to Chile as continental champions.
Men: South Africa 2–1 Kenya
The South African Men were given their sternest test of the tournament by a fired-up Kenyan side chasing momentum ahead of their third-place playoff against Egypt — a clash that will decide Africa’s final Junior World Cup berth.
Kenya stunned the South Africans with an early goal from Bhamra, putting South Africa behind for the first time in the competition. Carloon Mentoor struck back to level the scores, but what followed was a physical, tactical battle with chances at a premium.
With just minutes remaining, Ross Montgomery forced the ball over the line in a crowded circle to seal a dramatic 2–1 victory and protect South Africa’s perfect record.
Having achieved their primary goal of World Cup qualification, South Africa now turn their attention to retaining their title as African champions in Friday’s final against the hosts.
Friday Finals – All to Play For:
- Women’s Final: South Africa vs Namibia – 16:25
- Men’s Final: South Africa vs Namibia – 19:00
Both matches will be streamed live on the African Hockey YouTube channel, as South Africa looks to cap off a dominant tournament with two gold medals.
Source: sahockey.co.za
