Windhoek, Namibia – In an electrifying showdown on the hockey field, Namibia secured their first major international trophy with a dramatic 3-2 victory over their southern African neighbors, South Africa. This historic win marked only the second time Namibia emerged victorious in 35 test matches against South Africa, a remarkable achievement for the determined Namibian side.
The match started cautiously, with both teams testing each other’s defenses in a tense opening period. Namibia’s first breakthrough came when David Britz delivered a precision cross that was expertly converted by Fagan Hansen, giving Namibia a vital lead at the end of the first quarter.
South Africa fought back, creating opportunities, but Namibian goalkeeper DJ Strauss made two incredible saves to deny Dal Langford. Namibia extended their lead when Ernest Jacobs initiated an attack and passed to Brynn Cleak, whose shot deflected off the South African goalkeeper into the net.
South Africa increased the pressure in the third quarter, winning two quick short corners. However, Namibian reserve keeper Richter van Rooyen made crucial saves to maintain Namibia’s lead. The relentless South African offense finally broke through when Keegan Hezlett scored with a high-powered field goal, narrowing the gap.
Early in the fourth quarter, South Africa’s captain, Jethro Eustice, celebrating his 50th cap, leveled the score with a diving shot in the box.
In a thrilling final quarter, Namibia created several opportunities but couldn’t capitalize. Cody van der Merwe’s shot from a short corner was cleared, and Dylan Finch’s chance was saved by the South African goalkeeper.
As the match concluded with a 2-2 draw, a sudden-death penalty shootout was required to determine the winner. Steven Paulo gave South Africa the initial lead, but Van der Merwe equalized immediately. Namibia’s young reserve keeper Richter van Rooyen made a decisive save against Hezlett, giving Namibia the advantage. JP Britz scored to put Namibia ahead 2-1, and though Dal Langford drew South Africa level at 2-2, Cleak scored the winning penalty, securing Namibia’s thrilling 3-2 victory.
This victory was particularly sweet for Namibia, seeking revenge after South Africa’s 5-3 win in their pool match three days earlier. Both Namibia and South Africa had qualified for the final, finishing first and second on the log with 12 points each, each winning four and losing one of their pool matches.
Meanwhile, New Zealand claimed third place by defeating Australia 6-4 in the bronze medal match.
Individual accolades were also celebrated, with Fagan Hansen of Namibia named the player of the tournament, while South Africa’s Steven Paulo emerged as the top scorer with an impressive 14 goals, followed by Hansen and Jett Leong of Australia, both with 11 goals each.
Namibia’s women’s team also showcased their prowess, finishing fifth overall after a 2-2 draw in their final pool match against Australia. The women’s final witnessed South Africa winning 4-3 in a penalty shootout against Switzerland, following a 1-1 draw at full time. Australia claimed the third spot by defeating Malaysia 2-0 in the bronze medal match, rounding off a memorable tournament for hockey enthusiasts in Namibia and beyond.
