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Latest News From the Netball World Cup Qualifiers – Africa

THANK YOU OFFICIALS

Following on from the Netball World Cup Qualifiers – Africa, World Netball would like to thank the officials that made the event a success. 

UAP

  • Marielouw Van der Merwe
  • Anne Abraitis  
  • Margaret Deighan

Umpires

  • Chakatsa Lephole
  • Anso Kemp
  • Elizna Van den Berg
  • Theresa Prince
  • Kate Mann
  • Leonard Masao
  • Theophilus Moletsane
  • Salomé Britz
  • Boikhutso Tuelo
  • Tharina Opperman
  • Rachael Radford

The event wouldn’t have been possible without you all. 

DAY 7

MALAWI 44 – 60 SOUTH AFRICA

Final

Umpires: Kate Mann, Rachael Radford, Chakatsa Loophole (reserve)

With both Malawi and South Africa having already qualified for the Netball World Cup 2023 (NWC2023), the final was all about who would leave the NWC2023 Qualifiers – Africa with the bragging rights finishing 1st. 

The Malawi Queens started the first quarter stronger, and were leading by two half-way through the first 15-minutes as they found their shooters with ease. Whilst at the other end, South Africa struggled to find their shooters, firing the ball off the back of the court on a couple of occasions as the shooters struggled to get through. 

The SPAR Proteas grew into the match, fixing their early errors and nothing could separate the two sides at the first break, as the score sat at 13-13. 

The opening minutes of the second quarter went goal for goal, until World Netball world ranked number five, South Africa, began to show their strengths and gel as a team, moving the ball patiently down the court in attack and closing down Malawi’s space at the other end to take a 22 – 29 goal lead into half-time. 

South Africa started the second-half just how they finished the first; in control, extending their lead and being cheered on by their home crowd. 

With 15-minutes remaining the SPAR Proteas led by 14 goals and they showed no signs of tiring as they finished the final quarter on a high, netting 15 goals to not only win the match, but also the Qualifiers. 

ZIMBABWE 59 – 41 ZAMBIA

3rd/4th Play-Off

Umpires: Anso Kemp, Elizna van den Berg, Theresa Prince (reserve).

In the first match of the final day of the Netball World Cup 2023 (NWC2023) Qualifiers – Africa Zimbabwe and Zambia battled it out for the last place at the NWC2023.

It was an unsettled start for both teams, with unforced errors creeping in throughout the court. However, as the nerves settled midway into the first quarter, it was Zimbabwe that took the marginal lead as they began to find their clinical shooters with ease. 

With five minutes to go of the first 15, Zambia made changes in their defensive circle to try and control Zimbabwe’s shooters, but it was the Zimbabwe Gems that remained on top at the first break 16 – 12. 

Zambia came out in the second quarter much stronger tightening up in defence again, closing the gap to one goal in the opening two minutes to 17-16.

The quarter continued to be closely contested with Zambia delaying Zimbabwe’s feeds into the attacking circle to prevent them running away with the lead. Reacting to this the Gem’s made a change at goal attack which helped to restore their quick feeds into the circle and allowed them to regain their four goal lead, leaving the score at 30 – 26 at half-time.

With only 4 goals in it, it was all still to play for in the second-half and with a place in the NWC2023 on the line it was clear both teams weren’t going to give up.

However, in the championship third quarter Zimbabwe built on their strong first-half dominating throughout court, and extending their lead to 11-goals.

From there is proved too much for Zambia to come-back into the game, meaning Zimbabwe took the win, 59 – 41, finishing 3rd in the NWC2023 Qualifiers-Africa, and qualifying for the NWC2023 as the final team from the Africa region joining Malawi who qualified when they reached the final and South Africa who pre-qualified as hosts. 

FINAL PLACINGS

PositionTeam Name
1st South Africa
2nd Malawi
3rdZimbabwe
4thZambia
5thKenya
6thBotswana
7thNamibia
8thEswatini
9thTanzania

FINAL POOL STANDINGS

TeamsPlayedWinLosePoints
South Africa4408
Zimbabwe4316
Botswana4224
Namibia4132
Tanzania4040
TeamsPlayedWinLosePoints
Malawi3306
Zambia3214
Kenya3122
Eswatini3030

DAY 6

NAMIBIA 59 – 50 ESWATINI

7th/8th Play-Off

Umpires: Tharina Opperman, Theo Moletsane, Leonard Mosoa (reserve)

The final match of Day 6 was to determine who finished in 7th and 8th with Namibia and Eswatini going head-to-head. 

Namibia got off to a strong shot taking an early 6 – 1 lead with the shooters splitting the circle nicely and their centre court consistently hitting the circle edge. Eswatini were struggling to work the ball into their goal circle to give their shooters attempts on goal as there seemed to be too much movement in the goal third. At the first quarter break, Namibia had secured a 10-goal lead with the score 18-8.

Eswatini made changes to their shooting circle and centre court in the second quarter as they looked to add a different dimension to their play. This helped in an attacking sense, but Namibia were showing no signs of tiring, despite already having played a match earlier in the day, and their shooters were rotating the circle nicely, always providing two options and shooting accurately. At half-time Namibia had extended their lead with the score 35 – 22.  

Eswatini had a much better start to the second half as they were making more purposeful moves in attack, which created spaces and allowed the team to work the ball to their shooters. Eswatini raced into a 9-2 lead in the quarter after the first seven minutes, which meant just six goals separated the sides. Namibia then made a change to their defence to try and stop Eswatini’s momentum, and it initially stopped the flow of goals, however, Namibia then had a strong final two minutes of the quarter with the game in the balance with 15 minutes to go. Third quarter score line Namibia 44 – 42 Eswatini.

The final quarter had a frantic start to it, with both teams making turnovers but unable to convert from them. Namibia then began to settle and were being more patient in their play as they secured a six-goal lead in the first five minutes of the quarter, with Eswatini only scoring two goals. Namibia held their nerve under pressure to secure 7th place with the final score Namibia 59 – 50 Eswatini.

Eswatini finish in 8th place. 

International fans can rewatch the match for free now on NetballPass, here.

SOUTH AFRICA 74 – 43 ZAMBIA

Semi-Final

Umpires: Kate Mann, Racheal Radford, Chakatsa Lephole (reserve)

In the second semi-final match South Africa faced Zambia. Zambia knew that if they won this match they would be invited by World Netball to compete at the Netball World Cup 2023 in Cape Town. Meanwhile, as South Africa have already qualified, if they came out on top, they would secure a spot in the Final and the second World Cup 2023 place would be the winner of the 3rd/4th Play-Off Match tomorrow. 

South Africa got off to a flying start in this match with a high tempo in all areas of the court. Zambia just could not put pressure on the South Africa centre pass and South Africa were converting with ease. After the first 15 minutes South Africa led 20 – 12

Zambia were trying to play patient netball to work the ball to their shooters at the start of the second quarter, however unforced errors were preventing Zambia from being able to reduce the South Africa lead. Zambia were applying more pressure in defence, however they could not stop the South African goal shooter. This was a much better quarter from Zambia, but South Africa had a comfortable lead with the score South Africa 36 – 26 Zambia. 

South Africa made several changes for the start of the second half, as again they look to rotate their squad and look at different combinations. Zambia also looked to freshen up their side as well, however this didn’t impact the flow of the match with South Africa still working the ball to their new shooters with ease. At the other end, South Africa were forcing Zambia to play the ball backwards or laterally as they struggled to work the ball into a shooting position. At the third-quarter break South Africa had extended their lead yet again with the score South Africa 56 – 36 Zambia.

More changes were made for the start of the final quarter, with both teams having one eye on tomorrows matches. South Africa were showing no signs of tiring as they raced out off the blocks to score the first seven goals of the quarter, as it took Zambia five minutes to score a goal. The atmosphere in the stands was electric with South Africa claiming a comfortable victory and scoring the highest number of goals in the competition so far to make the Final. Final score South Africa 74 – 43 Zambia. 

Zambia will now compete in the 3rd/4th Play-Off match with the winner of this match also being invited by World Netball to compete at the Netball World Cup 2023 in Cape Town. 

International fans can rewatch the match for free now on NetballPass, here.

MALAWI 62 – 41 ZIMBABWE

Semi-Final

Umpires: Anso Kemp, Elizna Van den Berg, Tharina Opperman (reserve)

The first semi-final match saw Malawi take on Zimbabwe with the winner knowing that they will be invited to compete at the Netball World Cup 2023. The crowd were in great voice for this match as Zimbabwe secured the first turnover of the match to claim a 2-0 lead, however Malawi turned this around immediately as they put on significant pressure in the circle with Zimambwe struggling to feed their shooters. At the other end of the court Malawi looked confident feeding their shooters from all areas of the court as they raced into a 14 – 8 lead at the first quarter break.

Malawi started the second quarter full of confidence as their defensive trio were creating turnovers and they were transitioning from defence to attack with speed and accuracy to convert. Zimbabwe were having to work extremely hard to get the ball to their shooters meaning the shooters looked tired on their shot. At half-time Malawi looked to be in a strong position with a 32 – 18 lead.

Zimbabwe made changes to their shooting circle for the start of the second half to try and reduce the Malawi lead, however it didn’t impact the flow of this game as Malawi continued to create turnovers and looked unstoppable in attack. With just 15 minutes to go Malawi had extended their lead further with the score Malawi 44 – 28 Zimbabwe. 

Malawi made changes to both their attack and defence for the final 15 minutes, including the remove off their captain from goal attack. Zimbabwe seemed to be working together better in attack in this quarter and actually had their best goal scoring quarter, however they still couldn’t stop the flow of goals for Malawi with Malawi securing a comfortable win. Full-time score Malawi 62 – 41 Zimbabwe. 

Malawi will now compete in the Final tomorrow and will now be invited by World Netball to compete at the Netball World Cup 2023 in Cape Town.

Zimbabwe will compete in the 3rd/4th Play-Off with the winner of this match also being invited by World Netball to compete at the Netball World Cup 2023 in Cape Town. 

International fans can rewatch the match for free now on NetballPass, here.

BOTSWANA 49 – 57 KENYA

5th/6th Play-Off

Umpires: Theresa Prince, Leonard Mosoa, Chakatsa Lephole (reserve)

The second match of Day 6 was the Play-Off match for positions 5th and 6th. The match started with a high intensity as both teams moved the ball quickly through the court. There wasn’t much to separate the teams in the first 15 minutes, Kenya seemed to be working the ball to their shooters easier than Botswana, which allowed them to take a five-goal lead into the break with the score Botswana 10 – 15 Kenya. 

Botswana changed their shooting circle early in the second quarter as they looked to inject more movement into the circle. The new combination helped the Botswana side in attack, however they struggled to create turnovers in defence in order to be able to reduce the five-goal lead from the first quarter. Kenya won the second quarter by just one goal, meaning the half-time score was Botswana 23 – 29 Kenya. 

Botswana came out fighting at the start of the second half as they scored the first two goals of the quarter, however, a forced change to the Botswana attack disrupted their flow and allowed Kenya to retain their six-goal advantage. With just 15 minutes to go, Kenya led 41 – 36 and looked set to claim 5th position. 

Botswana knew that they had to give everything in these final 15 minutes to reduce the Kenya lead, and they started well clawing themselves back into the game with the Kenya lead just two with 10 minutes still left on the clock. However, a few Botswana unforced errors allowed Kenya to regain a comfortable seven-goal lead with 5 minutes left on the clock. Kenya kept their calm and secured the win with a score of Botswana 49 – 57 Kenya. 

Botswana finish 6th.

Kenya finish 5th. 

International fans can rewatch the match for free now on NetballPass, here.

NAMIBIA 47 – 46 TANZANIA

Positions 7th – 9th Play-Off

Umpires: Victor Tuelo, Salomé Britz, Kate Mann (reserve)

Tanzania came into this match knowing that they had to win to avoid finishing in 9th place, and they looked nervous in the early stages as Namibia raced into a 7 – 3 lead after five minutes. Tanzania then settled into the match and had a strong finish to the quarter with the quarter-time score Namibia 13 – 11 Tanzania.

Both teams were shooting at around 80% accuracy in this match, however, Namibia were providing their shooters with more attempts which gave them their slender lead. Tanzania’s defence began to force errors in the Namibia attack, which gave them a two-goal lead half-way through the second quarter, however, Namibia fought back well to retain their lead with the score at half-time Namibia 24 – 22 Tanzania. 

Namibia made changes to their side for the second half and they forced an immediate turnover to take a four-goal lead. Both sides seemed to be struggling in attack during this quarter with unforced errors coming from both sides. A goal on the buzzer gave Namibia a five-goal lead with 15 minutes remaining with the score Namibia 35 – 30 Tanzania. 

Tanzania made two changes for the final quarter in an attempt to bring some fresh legs into their side. Both teams were converting from their own centre pass in the early stages with Namibia keeping their five-goal lead with just three minutes left on the clock. However, a late surge of goals from Tanzania meant the game was level at 46-46 with just ten seconds remaining. Namibia managed to work the ball to their shooter with a long-range feed who netted the goal under immense pressure to secure a one-goal lead for Namibia, with the full-time score Namibia 47 – 46 Tanzania.

Tanzania finish in 9th place.

International fans can rewatch the match for free now on NetballPass, here.

DAY 5

TANZANIA 42 – 58 ESWATINI

Positions 7 – 9 Play Off

Umpires: Victor Tuelo, Tharina Opperman, Theresa Prince (reserve)

This was the first of three matches to determine the final positions of 7th, 8th and 9th. Three matches were taking place due to there being an uneven number of teams in Pool A and Pool B. 

Both of these sides were looking for their first win of the competition and it was Estwatini that got off to the better start as they claimed a five-goal lead in the first five minutes of the match. Eswatini continued to look full of confidence as Tanzania found it hard work transitioning the ball from defence to attack. After the first 15 minutes, the score was Tanzania 6 – 15 Eswatini. 

Tanzania made on change to their centre court for the second quarter to try and help connect the defensive and attacking end, and it definitely improved the flow through the court as they were able to score more than double the goals they managed in the first quarter. However, Eswatini were converting their centre passes and at half-time led 31 – 19.

Eswatini changed their shooting circle for the start of the second half, however the change in combination didn’t disrupt proceedings as they continued to work the ball to under the post. Despite a slightly closer quarter, Eswatini still managed to extend their lead further with the score with just 15 minutes to go Tanzania 29 – 44 Eswatini. 

Tanzania came out fighting in the final quarter whilst Eswatini switched their goal attack into goal defence. Eswatini looked composed and clinical from their own centre passes as Tanzania couldn’t close the gap. The score in this quarter was Tanzania 13 – 14 Eswatini, however due to a strong first half from Eswatini, the full-time score was Tanzania 42 – 58 Eswatini. 

Both of these teams will face Namibia tomorrow to determine who finishes 7th, 8th and 9th. 

International fans can rewatch the match for free now on NetballPass, here.

MALAWI 61 – 49 ZAMBIA

Pool B

Umpires: Anso Kemp, Elizna Van den Berg, Theo Moletsane (reserve)

This was the second match of the day where two teams unbeaten were going head-to-head. This time it was the battle of Pool B, with the winning side knowing they would top the Pool.

Both teams started the match with a high intensity and were converting off their own centre passes. However, a stray Zambia pass allowed Malawi to take the first two-goal lead of the match. There wasn’t much to separate the sides in the first 15 minutes, before a great long shot from the Malawi captain on the buzzer gave her side a 15 – 9 lead at the first quarter break. 

Zambia were struggling to find space in the second quarter, with the Malawi Queens shutting down the space well in the final third of the court which was forcing errors from Zambia and halfway through the quarter Malawi had a nine-goal lead. Zambia had a better finish to the quarter as they upped the defensive pressure themselves, however at half-time, the score was Malawi 27 – 22 Zambia. 

Both teams started the second half confidently and were converting from their centre passes. Zambia were actually shooting with better accuracy so far in the match, however Malawi were creating more attempts which is why they had the lead. It was another tight 15 minutes, but Malawi had extended their lead slightly with the score at the third quarter break Malawi 44 – 35 Zambia. 

Zambia were looking for a strong finish to the match as they scored the first two goals of the quarter. However, they were unable to reduce the deficit, with Malawi claiming victory with the final score Malawi 61 – 49 Zambia. 

Malawi will now face Zimbabwe in their semi-final match, whilst Zambia will face South Africa. 

International fans can rewatch the match for free now on NetballPass, here.

SOUTH AFRICA 68 – 47 ZIMBABWE

Pool A

Umpires: Kate Mann, Rachael Radford, Chakatsa Lephole (reserve)

Both sides entered this match unbeaten and were looking for the victory to finish top of Pool A. 

South Africa made a strong start to the match as an early missed Zimbabwe shot allowed South Africa to secure a 3-0 lead. Zimbabwe were having to play the ball backwards frequently and were struggling to work the ball to their shooters, meanwhile, the South African shooters were working nicely together and finding the space well. At the first quarter break South Africa led 18-9. 

Zimbabwe made several changes for the second quarter, whilst South Africa also changed their defence. Zimbabwe started this quarter better as they looked more confident feeding their shooters, however the South Africa shooters were converting from all areas of the circle with the half-time score South Africa 32 – 20 Zimbabwe. 

Zimbabwe started the second half well as they put on significant pressure on the South Africa centre pass, and were working the ball to their shooters nicely. However, the SPAR Proteas looked focused and were able to extend their lead to 22 goals with the score at the third quarter break South Africa 53 – 31 Zimbabwe. 

South Africa again took the opportunity to give their full squad time on court and Zimbabwe also made changes to give their side exposure to this level of competition. Zimbabwe played much better in this quarter and actually drew 15-15, however, South Africa had already stamped their authority on the match with the full-time score South Africa 68 – 47 Zimbabwe. 

This means that South Africa finish the group top of Pool A and will face Zambia, who finished second in Pool B in their semi-final match. 

Meanwhile, Zimbabwe finish second in Pool A and will face Malawi, who finished top of Pool B in their semi-final match. 

International fans can rewatch the match for free now on NetballPass, here.

BOTSWANA 54 – 45 TANZANIA

Pool A
 
Umpires: Theresa Prince, Leonard Mosoa, Salomé Britz (reserve)
 
The loser of this match knew that they would then have to compete again at the end of the day in the first match to determine positions 7-9. 
 
The Botswana defence got off to a great start forcing two turnovers in the first three minutes. They were forcing Tanzania to play long diagonal passes which were being intercepted, however, they were not converting these chances in attack. At the first quarter break, Botswana had a marginal one-goal lead with the score Botswana 13 – 12 Tanzania. 
 
Both sides continued to make errors in attack in the second quarter with Botswana hitting the circle edge well but then lacking accuracy on their final feed, meanwhile Tanzania were struggling to work the ball to the circle edge and were often having to play the ball laterally or backwards. At half-time Botswana had a marginal lead with the scoreline Botswana 25 – 22 Tanzania.
 
Tanzania had a good start to the second half as they were patient in their build-up play and were working the ball close to the post with the scores level after the first five minutes of the quarter. Both sides defence were being called for contact more frequently giving the attacks an advantage. Botswana had a strong final few minutes to the quarter as they regained their three-goal advantage with the score Botswana 37 – 33 Tanzania. 
 
It was all to play for in the final 15 minutes, and it was Botswana with the first advantage as they claimed the rebound from a missed shot and they converted the chance as they extended the lead to six goals. Botswana built on this throughout the quarter as they found their flow in attack with the full-time score Botswana 54 – 45 Tanzania.
 
This result means that Tanzania finish 5th in Pool A, and will compete for the 7th – 9th final position. Meanwhile Botswana finish 3rd in Pool A and will compete for the 5th / 6th final position. 
 
International fans can rewatch the match for free now on NetballPass, here.

DAY 4

KENYA 52 – 36 ESWATINI

Pool B

Umpires: Rachael Radford, Theo Moletsane, Anso Kemp (reserve)

Both these sides were looking for their first victory in Pool B, so this match looked set to be a tightly fought contest. Kenya started the match with a high intensity and pace to their play and scored the first four goals of the match. Eswatini then began to settle and pulled the scoreline back to 11 – 10 with two minutes left in the quarter. Kenya had a late flurry of goals with the score at the first quarter break Kenya 14 – 11 Eswatini. 

Kenya looked strong in attack in the second quarter with Eswatini struggling to prevent the feeds into the shooting circle as the goal shooter held her space well and utlisied the height advantage she had. Eswatini just couldn’t stop the flow of goals like they did in the first quarter, with the half-time score Kenya 33 – 21 Eswatini. 

Eswatini made an interesting change for the third quarter moving their goal shooter into goal keeper as they looked to try and stop the Kenya shooters. Eswatini did have early chances to reduce the Kenya lead, however they were unable to capitalise and often gave the ball straight back to Kenya. This quarter was much improved by Eswatini with the scoreline Kenya 12 – 8 Eswatini, however due to Kenya’s dominant display in the second quarter, the score with 15 minutes left was Kenya 45 – 29 Eswatini. 

The start of the fourth quarter was going goal-for-goal for the first few minutes, however Kenya’s captain and goal defence forced the first turnover of the quarter which Kenya converted from. Eswatini were creating defensive turnovers and held balls themselves, however struggled to convert these chances on a number of occasions. The full-time score was Kenya 52 – 36 Eswatini, giving Kenya their first win of the tournament, meaning Kenya will compete in the 5th/6th position play-off, whilst Eswatini will compete for a place between 7th – 9th.

International fans can rewatch the match for free now on NetballPass, here.

TANZANIA 33 – 43 ZIMBABWE

Pool A

Umpires: Salomé Britz, Tharina Opperman, Victor Tuelo (reserve)

Zimbabwe came into this match unbeaten whilst Tanzania were looking to claim their first win. Zimbabwe looked much more confident in the early stages of the match as they forced an immedidate turnover to secure a 3 – 0 lead. Zimbabwe were working together seamlessly as a defensive unit and were forcing mistake from the Tanzania attack. At the first quarter break Zimbabwe led 13 – 6. 

Both sides were struggling to find their flow in attack with every ball being contested making this a physical encounter. Tanzania were trying to find a way to get themselves back into the match, however when their centre court players were hitting the circle edge, they couldn’t find the required feed to their shooters. At half-time the score was Tanzania 12 – 22 Zimbabwe. 

Tanzania continued to change their attack to try and make an impact and change the flow of the match, and they made a strong start to the second half as they raced into a 4 -1 lead in the quarter. Despite it being a much better quarter in attack for Tanzania as they scorred 10 goals, they only managed to reduce the Zimbabwe lead by one goal with the third quarter score Tanzania 22 – 31 Zimbabwe. 

Again the fourth quarter was much better from Tanzania as they only lost by two goals in this 15 minutes. However, as Zimbabwe had gained a significant lead in the first half, Tanzania were unable to recover from this. The full tiem score was Tanzania 33 – 43 Zimbabwe, giving Zimbabwe their third win of the competition. 

International fans can rewatch the match for free now on NetballPass, here.

NAMIBIA 43 – 45 BOTSWANA

Pool A

Umpires: Kate Mann, Chakatsa Lephole, Elizna Van den Berg (reserve)

Botswana were looking for their first win in the first match of Day 4, whilst Namibia were seeking their second. Namibia had a strong start to the match as they took an early 6 – 2 lead and they looked controlled through the court. However, Botswana seemed to grow in confidence and were working tirelessly in defence to turnover ball. At the first quarter break Botswana had the lead by just one goal with the score Namibia 11 – 12 Botswana. 

Both sides looked strong in defence at the start of the second quarter, with just three goals in the first three minutes. Botswana started to find their flow in attack in the second half of the quarter and they extended their lead to five goals at the half-time break. Half-time score Namibia 20 – 25 Botswana. 

In the second half Namibia looked more settled in attack with their shooters finding the space in the circle well. They managed to reduce the Botswana lead to just two goals at one stage, however, Botswana fought back with defensive turnovers themselves to make the score at the third quarter break Namibia 31 – 37 Botswana. 

Namibia again showed their fight in the final quarter as they managed to claw themselves back into the match with the Botswana lead just one goal with seven minutes remaining in the match. It was an exciting and tense finale, however, Botswana kept their composure and held on to their lead with the final score Namibia 43 – 45 Botswana. This gives Botswana their first win of the competition. 

Namibia will compete for a place between 7th and 9th.

International fans can rewatch the match for free now on NetballPass, here.

DAY 3

KENYA 31 – 72 MALAWI

Pool B

Umpires: Elizna Van den Berg, Theresa Prince, Salomé Britz (reserve)

The final match of Day 3 saw Kenya looking for their first win whilst Malawi were looking to remain unbeaten and claim their second win. 

The start of the match was extremely tight with both teams lacking fluidity and struggling to capitalise on mistakes. Kenya seemed happy to pass the ball laterally in the early stages and were patient with their play, however, they began to tire in the final stages with Malawi leading at the break 13 – 9.

Malawi increased the intensity in the second quarter and scored the first six goals of the quarter to extend their lead to 10. Malawi looked more comfortable feeding their shooting circle as the match went on and at the break led 31 – 17.

Kenya made changes to their defence in the third quarter to try and increase their energy levels and improve their man-on-man defence. However, the Malawi shooters were finding great positions and shot accurately throughout, whilst their defence had secured 28 turnovers in the first 45 minutes. At the third quarter break, the score was Kenya 25 – 54 Malawi. 

Malawi showed no sign of complacency in the final 15 minutes as they scored another 18 goals this quarter taking their total to 72, which is the highest goal tally so far in the tournament. Final score Kenya 31 – 72 Malawi. 

International fans can rewatch the match for free now on NetballPass, here.

SOUTH AFRICA 58 – 30 TANZANIA

Pool A

Umpires: Chakatsa Lephole, Victor Tuelo, Kate Mann (reserve)

South Africa were looking for their third win of the day in the third match of Day 3, while Tanzania were seeking their first. 

South Africa started the match with a lot of momentum off the back of a strong victory against Namibia yesterday. They immediately turned over the first Tanzania centre pass and raced into a 3 – 0 lead. Tanzania were struggling to break down the South Africa defence and as a result, only scored seven goals. At the first quarter break South Africa led 15 – 7.

The SPAR Proteas were working together well throughout the court, transitioning from defence to attack with ease and both shooters always providing an option and looking clinical. South Africa had a comfortable lead going into the half time break with the score South Africa 34 – 13 Tanzania.

Both sides seemed to increase the pressure in the third quarter with two held ball calls within the first two minutes. Tanzania looked much improved in attack, and were finding a way to break through the SPAR Proteas persistent defence. Although this was a much better quarter for Tanzania, South Africa had a comfortable lead going into the final 15 minutes with the score South Africa 48 – 23 Tanzania. 

South Africa took the opportunity to give the whole squad some court time, and it did seem to disrupt their flow initially as players adjusted to each other. The Tanzania defence were turning over more ball in this quarter as they reduced the South Africa scoring rate. Tanzania only lost this quarter by three goals, however the match finished South Africa 58 – 30 Tanzania, as South Africa win their third match in three days. 

International fans can rewatch the match for free now on NetballPass, here.

NAMIBIA 41 – 45 ZIMBABWE

Pool A

Umpires: Anso Kemp, Leonard Masao, Rachael Radford (reserve)

Both teams had won one match going into the second match of Day 3, and it was Zimbabwe who started the stronger out of the two sides as they raced into a 6 – 1 lead after 5 minutes. Namibia looked like they were struggling to find their flow in the early stages, however they fought their way back into the match with the score Namibia 8 – 12 Zimbabwe after the first 15 minutes.

Zimbabwe made their second change to their centre court in the second 15 minutes and it seemed to be making a difference with Zimbabwe scoring the first 4 goals of the quarter. However, Namibia then made a change themselves, replacing their goal shooter, which seemed to help their flow in attack initially, but Zimbabwe began to adjust tactically and they faced into a nine-goal lead at the half-time break. Half-time score Namibia 14 – 23 Zimbabwe. 

The second half seemed more even as both teams were being forced to play patiently. A few missed shots from the Namibia shooters allowed Zimbabwe to extend their lead, with the score at the third quarter break Namibia 24 – 36 Zimbabwe.

Despite Namibia suffering injuries to their team, they came out firing in the second half as they scored nine goals in the first five minutes, whereas Zimbabwe scored just four. They continued to push Zimbabwe reducing the deficit to five goals with five minutes remaining. However, Zimbabwe kept their composure and managed to hold on to their lead with the full-time score Namibia 41 – 45 Zimbabwe. Namibia won the final quarter 17 – 9. 

International fans can rewatch the match for free now on NetballPass, here.

ZAMBIA 64 – 50 ESWATINI

Pool B

Umpires: Tharina Opperman, Theophilus Moletsane, Theresa Prince (reserve)

This was both teams second match of the tournament with Zambia looking to secure their second win and Eswatini looking for their first. 

The first 15 minutes was a tight contest with Eswatini threatening to break away but being pegged back by Zambia each time before taking the lead themselves in the final 5 minutes of the quarter. The Zambia shooters were not only converting under the post but also helping their side defensively as they led 19 – 15 at the break.

In the second quarter, Zambia were putting immense pressure on Eswatini throughout the court meaning they couldn’t get the ball to their shooters. Eswatini were actually shooting more accurately in the first half, however had fewer attempts. Zambia extended their lead in this quarter with the score 33 – 21 at half-time.

Eswatini made several changes to their side for the second half and impacted the game immediately as Eswatini scored the first two goals of the quarter. The teams continued to go goal-for-goal and the score within this 15 minutes was Zambia 16 – 15 Eswatini. Due to Zambia’s strong first half they led 49 – 36. 

Eswatini were not giving up and started the final quarter well, however Zambia looked composed in attack and were not allowing Eswatini to reduce the deficit. Eswatini again only lost this quarter by one goal and Zambia won this match due to their first-half performance. The final score was Zambia 60 – 50 Eswatini giving Zambia their second victory in Pool B. 

International fans can rewatch the match for free now on NetballPass, here.

DAY 2

SOUTH AFRICA 66 – 38 NAMIBIA

Pool A

Umpires: Rachael Radford, Kate Mann, Chakatsa Lephole (reserve)

Both sides came into this match having won their opening match of the tournament, and it was South Africa that came out firing as they took an early 4 – 0 lead. It looked like the SPAR Proteas had a point to prove after being pushed in their first match against Botswana, and they raced into a 14 goal lead at the first quarter break, with the score South Africa 20 – 6 Namibia. 

South Africa continued with the same level of intensity in the second quarter as they were working the ball through the court with ease. The SPAR Proteas were growing in confidence with their shooters taking on mid-range shots and converting. At half-time they led 36 – 13.

Both sides made changes for the second half, and it definitely made a difference in the Namibia attack as they scored 12 goals in this quarter in comparison to 13 in the whole first half. However, South Africa also looked strong in attack and they extended their lead further with the third quarter score South Africa 52 – 25 Namibia. 

Namibia continued to fight in the second half, and they only lost the final quarter by one goal. However due to South Africa’s outstanding first half where they dominated throughout the court, they claimed their second win of the tournament with the score South Africa 66 – 38 Namibia. 

International fans can rewatch the match for free now on NetballPass, here.

ZIMBABWE 49 – 41 BOTSWANA

Pool A

Umpires: Theresa Prince, Leonard Masao, Anso Kemp (reserve)

The second match of Day 2 was the first match for World Netball World Ranked 13th team, Zimbabwe, as they faced Botswana who were competing in their second match of the competition.

The match also marked Theresa Prince’s 100th international ranking match umpired which is a significant achievement, congratulations Theresa! 

Both defences were on top in the early stages of the match, with both teams securing interceptions but then giving the ball away. Zimbabwe then found their flow with their shooters looking clinical, at the end of the first quarter Zimbabwe led 13 – 8. 

Zimbabwe continued to put on significant pressure at the start of the second quarter with their whole team knowing their role and forcing mistakes from Botswana. However, Botswana came back fighting and started to turnover ball themselves with Zimbabwe leading by just two goals at half-time. Zimbabwe 22 – 20 Botswana.

At the start of the second half there was nothing to separate the sides with both teams having to work extremely hard to get the ball to their shooters. Zimbabwe changed their shooting circle for the third quarter and it seemed to be making a difference with Zimbabwe leading 37 – 31.

Botswana tried to change the flow of the match in the final quarter by switching their goal shooter, however Zimbabwe remained composed and kept their lead in tact throughout the quarter to claim their first win of the tournament with the full-time score Zimbabwe 49 – 41 Botswana. 

International fans can rewatch the match for free now on NetballPass, here.

MALAWI 69 – 50 ESWATINI

Pool B

Umpires: Salomé Britz, Victor Tuelo, Elizna Van den Berg (reserve)

The first match of Day 2 saw World Netball’s newest Full Member, Eswatini, take on the Malawi Queens ranked 7th in the World Netball World Rankings

Malawi started the match well scoring the four goals of the match with The Queens working the ball to their shooters with ease. Eswatini were having to be patient in attack playing many passes before getting the ball to their shooters. At the first quarter break Malawi led 19 – 11. 

Eswatini came out fighting in the second quarter as they continued to remain patient working the ball to their shooters under the post as they reduced the Malawi lead to just four goals. However, the pressure the Malawi defence were putting on throughout the court allowed them to pull away leading by 11 goals at half-time. Malawi 35 – 24 Eswatini. 

Malawi continued to extend their lead in the second half as Eswatini struggled to stop the feeds into Joyce Mvula at goal shooter. Malawi looked in control throughout the court as they led 54 – 37 with just 15 minutes left.

Both sides made changes in the final quarter as they looked to give more players court time. The start of this quarter was much closer with the Eswatini defence applying more pressure and the game going goal-for-goal. The final quarter score was 15 – 13 showing Eswatini’s fight, however, Malawi secured their first win of the tournament with the score Malawi 69 – 50 Eswatini.

International fans can rewatch the match for free now on NetballPass, here.

DAY 1

BOTSWANA 37 – 60 SOUTH AFRICA

Pool A

Umpires: Chakatsa Lephole, Kate Mann, Rachael Radford (reserve)

The final match of Day 1 saw hosts South Africa, who are ranked 5th in the World Netball World Rankings, take on Botswana who are ranked 28th.

The match started frantically with the ball going back and forth for 90 seconds before South Africa finally netted the first goal. South Africa then took an early 4 – 1 lead, however the Botswana circle defence started to get rewards for the immense pressure that they were applying and they went into a two-goal lead. South Africa clawed one back just before the quarter-time whistle with the score Botswana 12 – 11 South Africa.

The match was going goal for goal at the start of the second quarter with both attacks making good decisions and being patient in their build-up play with the scores level halfway through the quarter. South Africa managed to gain a small lead with the half-time score Botswana 23 – 26 South Africa. 

Botswana made five changes for the third quarter, however this didn’t stop South Africa’s momentum as they scored the first three goals of the quarter. The South Africa fans were cheering their side on and the players were reacting as they took control of the match, with the whole team working together as one unit. With 15 minues to go South Africa had extended their lead with the score Botswana 32 – 48 South Africa. 

Both sides struggled to find their flow at the start of the final quarter with several unforced errors as only four goals were scored in the first five minutes. The South Africa circle defence were forcing the Botswana shooters to take long-range shots which they looked uncomfortable with as they extended their lead to 20 midway through the quarter. A solid second half from the SPAR Proteas gave them their first win of the tournament as the match finished Botswana 37 – 60 South Africa.

International fans can rewatch the match for free now on NetballPass, here.

ZAMBIA 46 – 30 KENYA

Pool B

Umpires: Anso Kemp, Tharina Opperman, Victor Tuelo (reserve)

The second match of Day 1 was the first match of Pool B with Zambia, ranked 17th in the World Netball World Rankings, take on Kenya who are ranked 40th. 

The match had a tight start with only two goals scored in the first 150 minutes as both sides were patient in their play. The Zambia defence then began to turnover ball as their pressure was forcing errors in the Kenya attack. After the first 15 minutes Zambia led 11 – 6. 

Zambia had the momentum going into the second quarter as they pushed their lead to 10 goals in the first five minutes of the quarter as Kenya struggled to break through the Zambia defence. Kenya fought back well though and actually drew the quarter with half-time the score was Zambia 21 – 16 Kenya. 

Kenya began to grow in confidence at the start of the third quarter with a deficit of just four goals after six minutes. However, Zambia’s defence then began to halt the Kenya attack yet again and at the third quarter break, Zambia led 35 – 23.

Kenya changed their side yet again with five changes in the final quarter, however Zambia looked clinical throughout the court and they secured their first win of the tournament with the score Zambia 46 – 30 Kenya. 

International fans can rewatch the match for free now on NetballPass, here.

NAMIBIA 54 – 40 TANZANIA

Pool A

Umpires: Elizna Van den Berg, Theo Moletsane, Leonard Masao (reserve)

The first match of the Netball World Cup Qualifiers – Africa saw Namibia, ranked 23rd in the World Netball World Rankings, take on Tanzania who are ranked 41st. 

Namibia started the match with a high intensity to their play and they scored the first four goals of the match. The shooters for Namibia looked solid in the circle and were converting from all areas. Tanzania only managed to score two goals in the first seven minutes, however, they finished the quarter strong with the quarter-time score Namibia 14 – 9 Tanzania.

Tanzania scored the first goal of the second quarter to reduce the deficit to just four goals. Namibia threatened to break away several times in the quarter, however Tanzania kept fighting back, however at half-time Namibia led by nine goals with the score.

The second half continued to follow a similar pattern to the first half with Tanzania fighting hard to stay in the match. They managed to reduce Namibia’s lead to six goals on a number of occasions, however, Namibia kept their composure to lead by nine goals with 15 minutes left with the score Namibia 42 – 33 Tanzania. 

Namibia found their full flow in the last quarter as they extended their lead further with the final score Namibia 54 – 40 Tanzania. Giving Namibia their first win in Pool A. 

International fans can rewatch the match for free now on NetballPass, here.

RESULTS

DATETIME (Africa time / BST)
21st August12:00pm/11:00amNamibia5440Tanzania
21st August14:00pm/12:00pmZambia4630Kenya
21st August16:00pm/15:00pmBotswana3760South Africa
22nd August11:00am/10:00amMalawi6950Eswatini
22nd August13:00pm/12:00pmZimbabwe4941Botswana
22nd August18:00pm/17:00pmSouth Africa6638Namibia
23rd August10:00am/11:00amZambia6450Eswatini
23rd August12:00pm/11:00amNamibia4145Zimbabwe
23rd August14:00pm/13:00pmSouth Africa5830Tanzania
23rd August16:00pm/15:00pmKenya3172Malawi
24th August12:00pm/11:00amNamibia4345Botswana
24th August14:00pm/13:00pmTanzania3343Zimbabwe
24th August16:00pm/15:00pmKenya5236Eswatini
25th August10:00am/9:00amBotswana5445Tanzania
25th August12:00pm/11:00amSouth Africa6847Zimbabwe
25th August14:00pm/13:00pmMalawi6149Zambia
25th August16:00pm/15:00pmTanzania4258Eswatini
26th August09:00am/08:00amNamibia4746Tanzania
26th August11:00am/10:00amBotswana4957Kenya
26th August13:00pm/12:00pmMalawi6241Zimbabwe
26th August15:00pm/14:00pmSouth Africa7443Zambia
26th August17:00pm/16:00pmNamibia5950Eswatini
27th August11:00am/10:00amZimbabwe5941Zambia
27th August13:00pm/12:00pmMalawi4460South Africa

OFFICIALS SELECTED

UAPS

Marielouw Van der Merwe – South Africa
Anne Abraitis – Scotland
Margaret Deighan – England

UMPIRES

Chakatsa Lephole – Lesotho
Anso Kemp – South Africa
Elizna Van den Berg – South Africa
Theresa Prince – South Africa
Kate Mann – England
Leonard Masao – South Africa
Theophilus Moletsane – South Africa
Salomé Britz – South Africa
Boikhutso Tuelo – Botswana
Tharina Opperman – South Africa
Rachael Radford – England

ABOUT THE EVENT

The Africa Netball World Cup Qualifiers will run from the 21st – 27th August, and are the second of the five qualifiers for the Netball World Cup 2023 (NWC2023), in Cape Town South Africa.

The event will be hosted by Netball South Africa,  and will take place in Pretoria where the hosts South Africa, as well as Namibia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Kenya and Eswatini will all be participating.  

The two top finishing teams from the event will then be invited by World Netball to compete at the NWC2023, this does not include South Africa who have already pre-qualified for the NWC2023 as hosts.

If South Africa finish in the top two, the third place team will be invited to compete at NWC2023.

The competition will be playing in a round-robin format with the 9 teams split into two pools based on the most recent results from the Africa Cup 2021 final placings.

In the pool matches teams will play all other teams within their pool. In the event of a win they will be awarded two points, for a draw they will be awarded one point, and for a loss they will not be awarded any points.

At the end of the round-robin/pool stage the teams in the pool shall be ranked according to points, and the top two teams from each pool shall progress to the semi-finals, the rest of the teams shall progress to play cross pool classification matches for positions 5-9.

In the event of a tie in points at the end of the round-robin, the result of the match between the two highest teams will be used to decide who should be higher ranked. However, if the two teams drew their match or more than two teams have the same number of points at the end, goal average of the matches will be used to decide the placings, if this is identical then goal difference will be used, and if there is still a tie then goals scored will be used.

Draws will not be allowed in the play-off matches, and extra-time will be played in the event of a tie at the end of the 4th quarter.

Here is the schedule:

WHERE TO WATCH

International viewers will be able to watch all matches live for free on NetballPass, here. 

Those in Sub-Saharan Africa* will be able to catch all of the action via SuperSport.

SuperSport Linear Channels:

South Africa – Variety 4

Rest of Africa – Variety 3, Variety 4, Go Select 1 & 2

All the matches will also be streamed live on the SuperSport App.

*The following countries can watch on SuperSport: Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Congo (Republic of/Brazzaville), Congo (Democratic Republic of), Cote d’Ivoire, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia (The), Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mayotte, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Niger, Reunion, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Socotra, Somalia (including Somaliland), South Africa, South Sudan, St Helena and Ascension, Sudan, eSwatini , Tanzania (United Republic of), Togo, Uganda, Zimbabwe and Zambia.

OTHER IMPORTANT LINKS

To find out where the teams are currently ranked, you can view our World Netball World Rankings here.

To find out more about the event, visit our events calendar, here

For more information on Africa Netball, click here.

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