The South African women’s hockey team reaffirmed their continental dominance with a 4-0 victory over Ghana in the final of the 2025 African Hockey Cup of Nations in Ismailia, claiming their eighth consecutive title and sealing qualification for the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup.
Facing a familiar rival in Ghana, whom they narrowly defeated 3-2 during the group stages, South Africa delivered a composed, clinical, and commanding performance when it mattered most.
It was the perfect start for the defending champions, as Jean-Leigh du Toit fired home a blistering drag flick from a penalty corner inside the opening minutes to give her side an early lead. Barely two minutes later, Kayla de Waal added the finishing touch to a deflected ball in front of goal, doubling the advantage and capping off a dream opening five minutes for the South Africans.
South Africa’s dominance continued as they dictated possession, tempo, and territory. Their relentless pressure paid dividends late in the second quarter when a sustained spell of penalty corners eventually saw Du Toit sweep home her second of the final, extending the lead to 4-0 by half-time after Hannah Pearce had earlier struck from another well-executed set piece.
With a commanding cushion, the second half saw the South Africans continue to control proceedings with trademark composure. Their defensive structure remained impenetrable, while the midfield trio dictated rhythm and tempo. Despite earning further penalty corners and opportunities, the scoreboard remained unchanged as the clock wound down.
When the final whistle blew, it signalled yet another golden chapter in South African hockey history, an eighth successive African crown, and a sixth consecutive final triumph over Ghana, underlining the team’s enduring excellence on the continental stage.
The victory also confirms South Africa’s place at the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup, as they continue to fly the flag proudly for African hockey on the global stage.
Photo: Jan van Wyk
