proteas get tied down by thailand in world cup opener

Proteas Get Tied Down By Thailand In World Cup Opener

The SA womens indoor hockey team were held to a 4-4 draw by Thailand in their opening FIH Indoor Hockey World Cup Croatia 2025 at the Zatika Sports Centre in Porec on Monday.

The South Africans missed the chance to grab a late winner when a Kayla de Waal flick struck the upright with the clock winding down. The Asian champions caught the South African women napping with a goal in the opening minute after an attack down the right and cross into the D that wasnt cleared.

The early setback seemed to stun SA in a jittery opening, but they had a chance to settle the early nerves with a short corner. Despite a great injection the trap was not controlled and the chance went begging.

They would make amends on their next penalty corner after a breakaway. The injection was again spot on and Malika Hamzas drag flick found the back of the net.

SA then took control of the quarter and Cailynn den Bakker put them 2-1 up. After defending a promising Thailand attack, South Africa broke quickly and a lovely team move between Den Bakker and Laylaa Davids set up the former to give the Africans a 2-1 lead at the end of the first quarter.