Qualifiers for the first Hockey 5s World Cup continues apace after USA took gold in the men’s and women’s Pan American Cup.
The Americans will be joined in Oman next year by Uruguay and Paraguay in the women’s event and Trinidad & Tobago and Jamaica in qualifying for the men’s Hockey 5s World Cup.
USA beat Uruguay in a shoot-out after a 5-5 draw. USA men then emulated their women’s team victory earlier, winning 3-2 in a shoot-out after twice coming back in normal time against Trinidad & Tobago
Rachel Dawson, head coach of USA women, said: “This has been an incredible tournament for us. There were a lot of ups and downs, but we have persevered. Even in the finals we had to face the adversity from a tough opponent, but this team is built on its resilience and joy in a brand new competition. We are proud to be the inaugural champions of Pan America and we look forward to the World Cup.”
The inaugural edition of the FIH Hockey5s World Cup will be played in Muscat, Oman from 24-31 Jan, with 16 teams competing in both men’s and women’s tournaments.
In the men’s competition Netherlands, Poland and Switzerland from Europe, and Egypt, Kenya and Nigeria from Africa have qualified for the World Cup, alongside hosts Oman.
In the women’s competition Namibia, South Africa and Zambia from Africa have qualified for the World Cup, alongside hosts Oman.
Three teams from Oceania, and Asia will also qualify for the World Cup later in the year.
