The final round of matches at the on going Africa Cup of Nations took place today 28th October, 2017 as defending champions South Africa defeated Ghana in the final before the final while Kenya beat Host Egypt to set up a bronze medal match with Nigeria.
Ghana’s female Black Sticks faced South Africa in the first match of the day. With both teams securing a place in the final, it was a match to decide who emerges group winners. Cells Evans put the Champions in front from a penalty corner in the 3rd minute to put pressure on the West African lads. The Black Sticks of Ghana conceded another goal in the 7th minute through Davids Illse who coincidentally was wearing the jersey number 7.
The first quarter ended 2-0 in South Africa’s favour. O’Connor Jessica increased the tally 3 minutes into the 2nd quarter to take the game beyond the reach of Ghana. The 3rd and final quarter produced no goal as both teams played with caution to reserve the best for the final tomorrow. South Africa won the game by 3-0 to top the group.
Kenya played Egypt in the women’s second game of the day and final game of the group. Host Egypt lost their 3rd game of the tournament to miss out on the bronze medal match. After two consecutive heavy losses to Ghana and South Africa, the Host came in strong to earn a point and secure a spot in the 3rd place match. The defence of both teams looked solid as the match travelled the first 3 quarters barren. Kenya’s Nekesa Juma stepped up to convert a penalty corner in the 47th minute to put the Suez Canal Authority Hockey Stadium in a moment of silence. The host fought back to equalise but their efforts proved futile as team Kenya went on to win the match by a lone goal.
South Africa finished as group winners with Ghana coming in 2nd to set up a final match with the champions. Can they redeem themselves or it will be 7 titles in a row for South Africa? Kenya face Nigeria in the 3rd place match after beating host Egypt.
