The result capped another impressive performance from the African champions, who followed up Thursday’s hard-fought 2-2 draw against three-time world champions Australia with a disciplined and confident display against France.

South Africa made the perfect start and were rewarded in the 17th minute when Mustapha Cassiem opened the scoring.

The French had little time to settle before Cassiem struck again. Just two minutes later, the forward doubled South Africa’s advantage to put his side 2-0 up and firmly in the driving seat.

Nic Spooner - World Sport Pics/FIH

France managed to reduce the deficit shortly before half-time, with captain Victor Charlet finding the target in the 30th minute to make it 2-1 at the break.

South Africa remained composed after the interval and dealt well with the French pressure. Rather than sitting back, the South Africans continued to threaten on the attack while maintaining their defensive shape.

Calvin Davis was instrumental in the impressive display and was rewarded for his contribution by being named Player of the Match.

France pushed hard for an equaliser during the closing stages, but South Africa held their nerve and eventually delivered the decisive blow.

With just a minute remaining, captain Dayaan Cassiem put the result beyond doubt, finding the back of the net to complete a memorable 3-1 victory.

The win was particularly satisfying for South Africa given their recent encounters with France. The European side had beaten the South Africans twice at the FIH Nations Cup in Cape Town two months ago, including a 2-1 victory in the final.

South Africa have now responded strongly on the World Cup stage.

After opening the tournament with defeats to Spain and Ireland, the draw against Australia and victory over France provide valuable momentum as the side continues its campaign in the 9th–16th classification phase.

South Africa will next face Malaysia on Sunday with the match scheduled for 11:30 in Wavre.

The Proteas women in turn also claimed a point by playing to a 1-1 draw against Japan in Amstelveen. On Sunday at 10:00 they will take on Chile at the Wagener Stadium.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport