South Africa’s men played their first ever FIH World Cup semi-final (in any format) at the FIH Indoor World Cup in Croatia against three-time world champions Germany, and lost 6-1.
It was always going to be a tough game in front of a packed crowd in Porec as the South Africans took on waters they had not experienced before. The South Africans were also without their most experienced player, Justin Domleo, who had been ruled out with injury.
Germany struck first to settle any early nerves, but South Africa responded through Dalpiarro Langford to level the scores and give themselves belief. However, Germany showed their class, adding two more goals before the break to take a firm grip on the game. South Africa had a golden opportunity to cut the deficit when Mustapha Cassiem stepped up for a penalty stroke, earned by his brother Dayaan, but the shot was saved.
The second half saw Germany continue their dominant display, adding an early goal to stretch their lead. South Africa, in pursuit of a comeback, removed their goalkeeper in the final minutes to push for goals, but Germany capitalised, scoring twice more to seal a 6-1 victory and secure their place in the final.
Photo: World Sport Pics for FIH