The International Hockey Federation’s Indoor Hockey World Cup came to a thrilling conclusion on Sunday, with Poland’s women’s team making history by claiming their first-ever title.

 Germany’s men edged past Austria in a dramatic shootout to reclaim the championship they last won 14 years ago.

In the women’s third-place playoff, Czechia staged a last-second comeback against Germany, equalising in the final play of regulation time before triumphing in the shootout to secure back-to-back bronze medals. 

Meanwhile, South Africa’s men’s team made history by winning their first-ever World Cup medal.

They clinched bronze, and became the first African team to reach the podium in the tournament’s history.

Namibia’s women’s team also had a landmark tournament, achieving a top-six finish and automatically qualifying for the next World Cup. Their hard-fought victory against Thailand on Saturday secured their place among the elite teams, marking a significant milestone for Namibian hockey. 

On the men’s side, Namibia concluded their campaign with an eighth-place finish, showcasing moments of brilliance despite facing tough opposition. 

-lmupetami@nepc.com.na