Tournament Overview and Participating Teams
The 2025 Men’s and Women’s Hockey Africa Cup of Nations is taking place from October 11 to 18, 2025, in Ismailia, Egypt, at the Suez Canal Authority Hockey Stadium. Organized by the African Hockey Federation (AfHF), the tournament serves as Africa’s premier continental championship and as the qualifying event for the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cups. The winners of both the men’s and women’s competitions will earn direct qualification to represent Africa on the global stage. This event highlights Egypt’s commitment to promoting hockey and providing a high-standard venue for international competitions.
In the men’s tournament, six teams are competing: South Africa, Egypt (host), Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, and Zambia. The women’s tournament features five teams: South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria, Kenya, and Ghana. Both tournaments follow a round-robin format, where every team plays against all others in their group. The top two teams advance to the gold medal final, while the third and fourth-placed teams contest the bronze medal match. Round-robin matches are scheduled from October 11 to 17, with the finals on October 18, 2025.
Competition Highlights and Significance
The Africa Cup of Nations is a vital platform for African hockey teams to demonstrate their skill and qualify for the 2026 World Cups. AfHF officials remarked on October 11, 2025:
“This tournament is not only a pathway to the World Cup but a showcase of Africa’s growing hockey talent. Every team has prepared extensively to compete at the highest level.”
South Africa’s captain, Sam Mvimbi, ahead of the opening match stated:
“We are excited to compete in the Africa Cup of Nations. Our goal is to perform consistently, reach the finals, and secure World Cup qualification. Every match counts, and we are prepared for the challenge.”
Egypt’s women’s coach added:
“Hosting the tournament motivates our team to perform at their best. We aim to showcase Egyptian hockey on home soil and inspire the next generation of players.”
The first days of the round-robin stage have already shown competitive play, with South Africa and Egypt asserting dominance in both men’s and women’s categories. Kenya and Nigeria delivered strong performances, while Ghana showed resilience despite facing tough opponents. The intensity of the matches reflects the growing depth and talent of African hockey.
AfHF President also emphasized on October 11, 2025:
“We are proud to host such a high-caliber event that brings together the best teams in Africa. This tournament strengthens our sport, encourages youth participation, and positions African hockey on the global map.”
As the tournament approaches its conclusion on October 18, 2025, attention turns to the medal matches, which will determine World Cup qualification. Both men’s and women’s champions will not only achieve continental glory but also secure the opportunity to represent Africa in the 2026 Hockey World Cups, marking this tournament as a pivotal milestone in African hockey history.
