Junior Africa Cup 2024: South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Egypt Seal World Cup Spots

by ·

Windhoek, Namibia — South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Egypt have secured qualification for the 2025 FIH Junior Hockey World Cups following strong performances at the 2024 Junior Africa Cup, held from April 18 to 25 in Windhoek.

In the women’s competition, South Africa dominated the pool stage, winning all five matches and finishing with a goal difference of +38. Namibia finished second, with their only loss coming against the eventual champions. Both teams sealed early qualification for the FIH Hockey Women’s Junior World Cup in Chile. Zimbabwe claimed the final African spot by defeating Uganda 6-1 in the bronze medal match. South Africa completed their flawless campaign with a 5-0 victory over Namibia in the final.

The men’s tournament saw South Africa continue their dominance, winning all five matches, including a 5-0 win over Namibia in the final. Both sides booked their places at the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup in India. Egypt secured Africa’s final qualification slot after defeating Kenya in a shootout, following a dramatic draw in their bronze medal match.

FIH President Tayyab Ikram praised the qualifying teams, noting that the expanded format of 24 teams at the upcoming World Cups is part of the FIH Empowerment and Engagement strategy aimed at growing the game globally.

Meanwhile, the Zambia men’s and women’s teams are back in the country.

Zambia Hockey Association (ZHA) has thanked the sponsors for their support to the teams.

“Zambia hockey wish to thank to all the sponsors, stakeholders, partners, hockey community, fans, athletes and media. Please continue to support us for the development of our sport in the country. Without you we wouldn’t have been here,” ZHA posted on their official Facebook page.

With the conclusion of the Junior Africa Cup, the qualification process for both the men’s and women’s 2025 Junior World Cups is now complete.