The ongoing Junior Hockey Africa Cup, currently underway in the capital, is heating up with close contests between top teams in both the men’s and women’s divisions.

The tournament started last Friday at the Davin Trustco Hockey Stadium in Windhoek, with Namibia’s women thrashing Kenya 3-0, while their male counterparts secured a convincing 3-1 victory over Egypt.

Also starting their tournament on a high note on Friday were neighbours, South Africa, whose women’s team thrashed Uganda 5-0, while their male counterparts demolished Zambia 12-3 in a jaw-dropping encounter.   

The second day almost saw similar results, as South Africa continued their dominance in the tournament, with the men giving hosts Namibia an 8-0 rude awakening, while their female counterparts continued their great performance, thrashing Zambia 19-0.

Namibia’s women’s team however held their own on the second day, winning their match 6-0 against Zimbabwe as the men floundered against South Africa.

As of yesterday, South Africa was in pole position, in both the men’s and women’s categories on the log standings. The men’s standings showed South Africa leading with six points from two matches played, closely followed by Zimbabwe, with four points after day two fixtures.

Namibia yesterday found themselves placed third with three points. 

This is after they managed to win one match and lose one against a strong South Africa side.

In the women’s log standings, South Africa remains on top with six points after two wins, followed by Namibia, who also sit on six points after two matches.

Speaking to this publication yesterday, Kenya men’s coach, Richard Wandera, said he was happy with how the tournament had progressed so far, stating that top-level hockey has been on display from all participating countries.

“We had a bad start, drawing against Zimbabwe, but that is what happens when you play your first match. However, I think we will have to make tweaks for the second match and other matches that will follow.

“All teams have shown strength, and I don’t think there is a weak team in this competition. All teams have conducted themselves in the most professional way possible, and the hockey on display is top-notch,” he said.

The tournament serves as a direct qualifier for the 2025 Junior World Cup, with the top three teams earning a spot at the junior world cup. Below are yesterday’s results along with today’s fixtures.   

-mkambukwe@nepc.com.na