South African Hockey Sets Sights on Continental Glory at 2025 Africa Cup of Nations

South African Hockey is pleased to announce its dual ambitions as both the men’s and women’s national teams prepare to compete at the 12th Men’s and 9th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (ACN) in Ismailia, Egypt. The tournament, running from 11 to 18 October 2025, doubles as the African qualifying event for the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup, with the champions in each gender earning direct qualification.

South African Men: Title, Pride, and World Cup Ambition

The men’s squad arrives in Egypt with both experience and expectation. South Africa is among the top-ranked African teams and has historically dominated the continental scene, with eight ACN titles to their name.

Key Facts & Format

Six teams will contest the men’s tournament: South Africa, Egypt (host), Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, and Zambia.
The format is round-robin, where every team plays each other from 11 to 17 October. The top two teams after this phase will contest the final on 18 October; the third and fourth placed teams will battle for bronze.
The men’s champion earns Africa’s automatic slot for the 2026 Men’s FIH Hockey World Cup.

Strengths, Challenges & Outlook
South Africa’s depth, international experience, and consistency in continental play position them as one of the front-runners. Their challenge will be managing pressure as favourites and countering host-nation advantage, especially from Egypt. Should they maintain composure and tactical discipline, they have a strong shot at the title and World Cup qualification.

South African Women: Aiming for Continued Continental Dominance

The women’s side enters the tournament as defending champions, having won the last seven consecutive editions. Their aim in 2025 is clear: extend that streak to eight and secure Africa’s sole berth in the 2026 Women’s FIH Hockey World Cup.

Team & Format

Five nations will compete in the women’s tournament: South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria, Kenya, and Ghana.
The format mirrors the men’s: round-robin from 11 to 17 October, followed by medal matches on 18 October.
The women’s champion earns the direct World Cup spot.

Squad Highlights & Momentum
The women’s squad was officially announced in August 2025. It features a blend of seasoned campaigners and emerging talent. Notably, three players—Ane’ Janse van Vuuren, Caylin Maree, and Jeanri Thomas—will earn their first caps at the international level. Nine members of the Paris 2024 Olympic side have been retained, providing continuity at the top end.

Critical Dates & Matchups

11 October (Opening Day): The men kick off with Ghana vs Kenya, followed by South Africa vs Zambia. In the women’s tournament, Kenya face Nigeria and Ghana take on Egypt.
18 October (Finals Day): Gold and bronze medal matches will take place across both tournaments.

Media & Broadcast Information

All matches will be streamed live on the African Hockey Federation Youtube channel.

Source: SAhockey.co.za