Namibia’s men’s hockey team made history by defeating South Africa on penalties to win the Africa Indoor Cup.
This victory not only marked their first African title but also secured their spot in the 2025 Indoor World Cup in Croatia. South Africa, however, found solace in the women’s competition, where they triumphed over Namibia in another gripping penalty shootout. Despite the loss, Namibia’s women also earned their ticket to the world stage next year.
The men’s final was a rollercoaster of emotions. South Africa surged ahead shortly after halftime with two quick goals from Mustaphaa Cassiem and Dal Langford, setting a 2-0 lead. Undeterred, Namibia mounted a stunning comeback with two penalty corner goals by Fagan Hansen, leveling the score at 2-2 as the final quarter approached.
The match culminated in a nail-biting shootout. Namibia edged ahead, and when South Africa’s captain Jethro Eustice missed his penalty shot, the Namibians secured a 4-3 victory, dethroning the perennial champions. This win sets the stage for their debut on the global platform in Croatia.
The women’s final mirrored the excitement and intensity of the men’s match. Namibia faced a similar challenge, trailing but fighting back valiantly. In the final quarter, Kiana Cormack’s two rapid goals brought Namibia level at 3-3, pushing the game into a decisive penalty shootout. Despite their spirited performance, the Namibian women narrowly missed out on the title, losing to South Africa. Nevertheless, their runner-up finish ensured their qualification for the 2025 Indoor World Cup alongside their male counterparts.
Reagon Graig, President of the Namibia Hockey Union, hailed the achievements as a historic moment for Namibian sports. “It is a momentous occasion for Namibian sport – we have rewritten the history books and our team has shown that it can be done. Hard work, thorough preparation, the inputs of the coaches and the rest of the support staff, and regular international competitions – that all contributed to us becoming African champions,” Graig remarked.
