The Kenya national men’s hockey team kicked off their Hockey 5s World Cup campaign with a resounding 6-1 victory over New Zealand at the Hockey Oman Venue in Muscat on Sunday.
The Kenyan side, coached by Michael Malungu, left spectators in awe with their dominant performance, showcasing their prowess on the field.
Right from the opening whistle, Kenya wasted no time asserting their dominance, as Danstone Wambwire found the back of the net in the first minute of the match.
The momentum continued to build as Ivan Ludiali and Shelton Kimutai extended the lead to 4-0 in the eighth minute, leaving New Zealand struggling to keep pace.
New Zealand managed to pull one goal back, offering a momentary relief, but Kenya’s relentless spirit was evident as Moses Andemba added to the tally in the 22nd minute.
The final minutes saw Richard Wanganga and Moses Ademba contributing two more goals, sealing an impressive 6-1 victory for the Kenyan team.
Coach Michael Malungu’s strategic guidance and the cohesive teamwork of seasoned players, including stars like Ivan Ludiali, Moses Muigai, and Moses Ademba, played a pivotal role in Kenya’s triumphant start to the tournament.
The team’s qualification for the Hockey 5s World Cup stemmed from their impressive third-place finish at the Africa qualifiers in December 2022, where they defeated Zambia 5-2.
As Kenya looks ahead, they are set to face Trinidad and Tobago in what promises to be another thrilling match, continuing their journey in the group stage. With a blend of experience and talent, the Kenyan team is poised to make waves in the tournament, leaving fans eager to witness their upcoming showdown against Australia on Monday afternoon.
The victory against New Zealand not only marks a significant moment for Kenyan hockey but also sets the stage for an exciting and competitive tournament in Muscat.
