Nigeria’s men’s hockey team secured the bronze medal at the 2025 Hockey Africa Cup of Nations with a 3–1 victory over Kenya in the third-place playoff at the Suez Canal Authority Stadium in Ismailia, Egypt.
The result marked a strong finish for the Nigerians in the 12th edition of the continental tournament, organised by the African Hockey Federation and held alongside the women’s competition.
Nigeria took the lead in the 16th minute when Solomon Dennis struck a fine field goal, but Kenya quickly responded through Usagi Sutcliffe in the 24th minute to level the game at 1–1.
In the second half, Nigeria took charge through set pieces, with Samaila James restoring the lead in the 44th minute from a penalty corner. He doubled his tally five minutes later, sealing a 3–1 win and securing bronze for the West Africans.
This achievement came as redemption after Nigeria’s women’s team fell 1–0 to Kenya in their own bronze medal match, with Bwire Grace scoring the winner in the 45th minute.
Meanwhile, South Africa maintained their dominance in African hockey by defeating hosts Egypt 5–1 in the men’s final, capturing their eighth continental crown and earning qualification for the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands. Their women’s team also triumphed with a 4–0 victory over Ghana, claiming their ninth title.
For Nigeria, the men’s bronze medal reflected notable progress, showcasing improved tactics, resilience, and sharp finishing. Samaila James emerged as the tournament’s top scorer with eight goals, highlighting the team’s growing attacking strength.
The 2025 edition concluded with South Africa once again asserting continental supremacy, while Nigeria’s consecutive podium finishes underscored their rise as one of Africa’s emerging hockey powers.
