Zim hockey campaign ends on a whimper

THE Zimbabwe senior men’s hockey team’s campaign at the ongoing Africa Road to Paris 2024 Olympic Qualifiers in Pretoria, South Africa, ended yesterday with a humbling 2-0 defeat to Zambia.

Both nations were already out of contention for a place at the Olympic Games after failing to make it to the knock-out stages last week.

Zimbabwe finished last in their group after defeats to Nigeria (3-4), South Africa (0-10) and a consolation 2-1 win over Uganda.

Zambia also anchored Pool B after defeats to Ghana (1-3), Kenya (0-1) and Egypt (1-4).

They, however, earned bragging rights following their win over neighbours Zimbabwe.

The encounter only came to life in the second quarter, in which goals by Joseph Simpanzye and Philemon Bwali in the 21st and 22nd minutes made all the difference.

The women’s team similarly struggled in South Africa, as they finished at the bottom of their group.

Coach Bhavik Chauhan could only watch from the sidelines as Nigeria edged his side 2-1.

They came short again when they faced hosts South Africa, who hammered them 10-0.

There was no respite for Zimbabwe in their final group game in which Namibia got the better of them in a 2-3 loss via a penalty shootout.

The two sides had been tied 2-2, with Zimbabwe getting their goals from Alexei Terblanche and Rumbidzaishe Zimuto, while Namibia replied through efforts from Jahntwa Kruger and Tisha Semedo.

Zimbabwe will now be hoping that the women’s Under-21 side will have a good outing when it represents the country at the FIH Under-21 World Cup in Chile scheduled for November 29 to December 10.

It will feature the top 16 nations from around the globe.

Zimbabwe qualified after finishing second at the Junior Africa Cup in Egypt in March.