South Africa fights back to defeat Malaysia in FIH Nations Cup

The South African women’s hockey team began their FIH Nations Cup campaign with a bang, overcoming a half-time deficit to secure a commendable 3–1 victory against Malaysia in Poland. Despite facing adversity early on, the team showcased a remarkable spirit and determination to claim all three points, energising their tournament hopes.

The match kicked off auspiciously for the South Africans, who quickly earned a penalty corner. However, their excitement was dampened when the shot was deemed dangerous, resulting in a missed opportunity. Moments later, South Africa was awarded a penalty stroke as Quanita Bobbs stepped up to take the shot, only to see her effort thwarted by Malaysian goalkeeper Nur Zainal, leaving the scoreline unchanged.

As the match unfolded, South Africa continued to press for an opening goal, with Onthatile Zulu coming perilously close with a shot that skimmed past the post. Hannah Pearce also had a chance, narrowly missing with a penalty corner effort. It was Malaysia, however, who broke the deadlock when a lapse in South Africa’s defence allowed Abang to have a chance at goal. She deftly controlled the ball, turned inside, and fired low into the corner, leaving South Africa trailing 1–0 at half-time.

Frustrated by their inability to capitalise on earlier chances, head coach Inky Zondi urged his team to press on, and they emerged from the break with renewed determination. The resurgence was immediate, as Ntsopa Mokoena seized a pass from Bobbs, drove into the circle, and unleashed a powerful slap that rattled the bottom left corner of the net, bringing South Africa level at 1–1.

Like buses arriving in quick succession, South Africa found themselves in front just minutes later. Cailynn den Bakker, displaying excellent vision, located Thati Zulu in space, who quickly took full advantage, shooting into the same corner that Mokoena had found moments before, making it 2–1.

The South African team sealed their victory in the final quarter when Hannah Pearce, marking her 51st international cap, skilfully converted from a penalty corner. Her expertly placed shot wove past two decoy runners and wrong-footed the opposing goalkeeper, providing a comfortable 3–1 lead and solidifying their grip on the match.

As the clock wound down, South Africa earned another penalty stroke when den Bakker was brought down in the circle. However, once again, Zainal rose to the occasion, saving the attempt from Tegan Fourie to deny South Africa a greater margin of victory.

With this victory, the South African women’s hockey team has set a positive tone for their FIH Nations Cup campaign, demonstrating resilience, teamwork, and an unwavering spirit in the face of adversity.