Ireland went into the encounter as favourites, with South Africa’s last victory over the European side going back to 2017. They made their early advantage count by enjoying the majority of possession and putting the South African defence under pressure.

The Irish had an early penalty corner but could not find a way through. They eventually broke the deadlock in the 14th minute when Niamh Carey burst down the left flank before picking out her twin sister, Michelle, at the far post. With the South African defence stretched, Michelle made no mistake from close range.

Paris-Gail Isaacs. Photo: World Sport Pics / FIH

Ireland continued to set the tempo in the second quarter, earning three more penalty corners as they searched for a second goal. South Africa, though, stood firm, throwing bodies in the way and frustrating the Irish attack.

The South Africans also showed glimpses of danger on the counter. Ntsopa Mokoena came closest during one swift attack, forcing the Irish defence to react with a well-struck effort from a difficult angle.

The match became a more cautious affair after half-time, with neither side willing to give the other an easy opening. South Africa dropped deeper to protect their goal, while Ireland were happy to manage the game and wait for opportunities. The result was a goalless third quarter.

Ireland continued to threaten after the restart and won two further penalty corners, but South Africa once again refused to buckle.

With time running out, South Africa took a bold gamble by withdrawing their goalkeeper and sending an extra outfield player into attack. It gave them greater numbers in the final third as they desperately searched for an equaliser.

Ireland, however, showed the composure that has been developed through their FIH Pro League experience, keeping their shape and managing the pressure as the clock ticked towards full-time.

Stephanie Botha. Photo: World Sport Pics / FIH

South Africa were rewarded for their persistence when they won their first penalty corner of the match in the 60th minute. It was their final chance to force the game towards a shootout, but Hannah Pearce’s effort was kept out as Ireland held on for a hard-earned victory.

While the result was disappointing, South Africa can take encouragement from a performance in which their defensive resilience kept them in the contest until the very end.

The defeat means the Proteas finish 14th at the tournament, one place higher than their 15th-place finish at the 2022 Hockey Women’s World Cup.

On Friday at the 12:30 the Proteas men will face Pakistan in Wavre, Belgium in the 11th-place playoff.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek  sm