South Africa are through to the semi-finals of the FIH Men’s Hockey Nations Cup after a thrilling come from behind 2-1 victory against France this afternoon (Tuesday, 29 November) at the the NWU Astroturf in Potchefstroom.
An equaliser from Tevin Kok and the winner from Keenan Horne, 15 minutes from the end of the game saw SA secure another three points to put them on top of pool A with one match remaining. Ireland are in second place on the table on 6 points, but behind on goal difference.
Photos: Wouter Pienaar
It was a hard fought encounter between two top sides who put everything on the astroturf in search of three points. In the end SA, who were cheered on by a loud and excited home crowd, took the spoils and one step closer to the trophy.
France, who scored the opening goal thanks to a brilliant hit in the top corner from Corentin Sellier, will feel that they deserved more than a loss today.
SA though are all smiles knowing that the first part of the job is done.
“It shows the growth of the team. We managed to pull over the line today,” stated Horne.
“It was a really tough game, at least we have a rest tomorrow. Stoked to have a semi-final spot,” added Brad Sherwood of South Africa.
SA will now take on Ireland on Thursday, 1 December at 15:00 to see who will top the pool.
It looks like pool B will most likely see Japan and Korea make the semi-final stage. Japan and Malaysia will battle in a proverbial quarter-final match (13:00) with the winner progressing to the last four.
FIH Hockey Nations Cup 2022 – Day 2 Results
Pool B – Korea 3-1 Japan
Pool B – Canada 2-3 Malaysia
Pool A – Pakistan 1-3 Ireland
Pool A – South Africa 2-1 France
FIH Hockey Nations Cup 2022 – Day 3 Fixtures (1 December)
09:00 – Korea vs. Canada
11:00 – France vs. Pakistan
13:00 – Japan vs. Malaysia
15:00 – South Africa vs. Ireland
