The South African (SA) Women’s Hockey team has kicked off their final FIH World Cup preparations on a high note, claiming victory over Namibia in the first Test match.

The hosts established early dominance, heading into the half-time break with a comfortable two-goal cushion thanks to strikes from Kayla de Waal and Hannah Pearce. Pearce continued her fine form into the second half, finding the back of the net once again in the third quarter to secure a brace.

The night also belonged to Ntsopa Mokoena, who celebrated a major personal milestone by earning her 50th international cap. She capped off the special occasion by scoring her 12th career goal and walked away with the Player of the Match honors.

While the win preserves SA’s unbeaten record against their neighbors, the camp isn’t getting complacent. Both the coaching staff and the players noted after the final whistle that they will need to show far greater clinical consistency in front of goal as the series progresses.

There is a quick turnaround for both teams, with the second Test scheduled to push off tomorrow, July 21st, at 17:00 CAT at the Elkanah House High School grounds right here in Cape Town.

–ChannelAfrica–