South Africa produced a determined comeback to defeat Chile 3–2 at the Wagener Hockey Stadium, securing their first victory of the 2026 FIH Hockey Women’s World Cup.
Photo – FIH World Sport Pics
Chile made the brighter start and opened the scoring in the 13th minute when captain Manuela Urroz converted a penalty corner, giving the South Americans a 1–0 advantage at the first break.
The African champions responded strongly in the second quarter. Captain Edith Molikoe led from the front, finding the equaliser with a brilliant steal and better finish in the middle of the park in the 22nd minute to send the teams into half-time level at 1–1.
South Africa carried that momentum into the second half and moved ahead for the first time in the 35th minute. Ntsopa Mokoena, who had also scored against Japan, converted from a close range after a lovely piece of work from Kayla de Waal was denied. Its two in two for Mokoena, but this one was significantly easier than the goal against Japan.
The decisive moment arrived three minutes into the final quarter. Caylin Maree finished clinically from a brilliant run from de Waal, spooning her finish past the Chilean defence to stretch South Africa’s advantage to 3–1 and give Inky Zondi’s side some valuable breathing room.
Chile refused to surrender and pulled one back through Simone Avelli in the 51st minute, setting up a tense finish. South Africa were forced to defend with discipline through the closing stages but held firm to secure a deserved 3–2 victory.
The result extends South Africa’s unbeaten run in the classification phase following their 1–1 draw against Japan and gives the team a significant boost ahead of their final classification encounter.
South Africa will likely play in the 13th place playoff, but will be confirmed after the afternoon results.
Full-time: Chile 2–3 South Africa
South Africa: Edith Molikoe (22’), Ntsopa Mokoena (35’), Caylin Maree (48’)
Chile: Manuela Urroz (13’), Simone Avelli (51’)
