Kenya’s national women’s hockey team, now known as the Blades, capped off their Africa Cup of Nations (ACN) 2025 campaign in style by clinching bronze with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Nigeria in Ismailia, Egypt. Grace Bwire emerged as the heroine, scoring the decisive goal early in the final quarter to seal Kenya’s spot on the podium.
Both teams began the encounter cautiously, focusing on defensive solidity, which resulted in a goalless first half. It was a tense affair, with limited chances on either side and plenty of physical play. The turning point came just a minute into the final period when Bwire capitalized on a quick attacking transition to slot home a well-taken field goal.
The match also saw moments of discipline challenges, as Faith Obukowho of Nigeria and Kenya’s Grace Akumu were sent off in the first and third quarters respectively for unsporting conduct. Despite the temporary numerical disadvantage, the Blades maintained composure and defensive discipline to keep the West Africans at bay until the final whistle.
Kenya’s overall performance at the tournament was commendable. Competing under their new name, the Blades impressed in the six-nation event, registering two wins, one draw, and a single loss during the group stage. Their resilience and improved tactical organization reflected the growing strength of Kenyan women’s hockey on the continental stage.
Meanwhile, the men’s team, Chui, narrowly missed out on a medal after falling 3-1 to Nigeria in the third-place playoff. Nigeria’s Samaila James struck twice from penalty corners, with Solomon Dennis adding another from open play. Kenya’s lone goal came from Satcliffe Usagi, who converted a field goal to offer some consolation.
Despite the loss, Chui showed moments of brilliance throughout the tournament, managing two wins against tough opposition. The experience gained against top African teams will be crucial for Kenya’s preparations ahead of upcoming international competitions.
Defending champions South Africa once again demonstrated their dominance in African hockey. Their women’s team extended their continental reign by claiming their eighth consecutive title with a commanding 4-0 victory over Ghana, while the men’s side thrashed hosts Egypt 5-1 to retain the trophy. Both South African teams secured qualification for the upcoming Hockey World Cup.
Zambia and Egypt finished bottom in both men’s and women’s categories respectively, as the curtain came down on the eight-day continental tournament in Ismailia. Kenya’s bronze finish, however, marks a promising step forward for the nation’s hockey ambitions.