Abuja: Nigeria kicked off their campaign at the 2025 Africa Hockey Cup of Nations in style, edging past Ghana 2–1 in a gripping opening match.
The win marks a strong start for the men’s team in the 12th edition of the continental tournament.
The result was a vital win for Nigeria in the 12th edition of the continental championship.
However, the women’s team fell 0-1 to Kenya in a closely contested match, marking a disappointing start to their ninth Africa Cup appearance.
The tournament organised by the African Hockey Federation runs from Oct. 11 to 18 in Ismailia.
A total of 15 teams are competing across both categories. The tournament also serves as the African qualifier for the 2026 Hockey World Cup.
Nigeria’s men will return to action on Sunday against Kenya, while the women face hosts Egypt in the day’s final fixture.
The top teams in each group will advance to the semi-finals scheduled for Oct. 16.
Finals for both categories will be held on Oct. 18.
