Kenya stumble again as ruthless South Africa extend ACN reign

The result followed their narrow 2-1 loss to hosts Egypt on Saturday.

South Africa’s Keenan Horne, Mustapha Cassiem, and Davis Calvin were on target, while Bethuel Masambu scored Kenya’s consolation goal.

Chui started brightly, pressing the South Africans early and forcing a defensive error that led to the suspension of Samkelo Mvimbi for a rough tackle late in the first quarter, which ended goalless.

Four minutes into the second quarter, Horne converted a penalty corner to open the scoring. Moments later, Kenya’s momentum dipped as defender Charles Ashiundu received a suspension for unsporting conduct. Cassiem doubled South Africa’s lead in the 23rd minute with a clinical field goal, giving the champions a 2-0 advantage at halftime.

In the third quarter, Kenya responded tactically and earned a penalty corner nine minutes in. Masambu capitalised on reducing the deficit, reigniting hopes of a comeback.

However, South Africa tightened their defence, with Sikh Union midfielder Cliff Omari denied a close-range chance. Three minutes into the final quarter, Davis Calvin sealed the victory by converting another penalty corner to make it 3-1.

Kenya will face Ghana on Tuesday as they seek their first win of the tournament, while South Africa is set to meet Egypt.