England vs South Africa Preview & Prediction | 2026 Women’s FIH Hockey World Cup | First Round
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England have been dealt a favourable hand on paper to start things off against South Africa, the lowest ranked team at this year’s World Cup.
Kick-off date/time:
How to watch on TV: UK – not televised / USA – USA’s matches will be televised live on CBS
How to watch online: UK – British home nation matches can be streamed live for free on Channel 4 Sport YouTube, while all matches can be streamed live on FIH Watch.Hockey / USA – USA’s matches can be streamed live on CBS digital platforms, while all matches can be streamed live on FIH Watch.Hockey
England vs South Africa prediction
South Africa may be rank outsiders heading into the tournament, but that makes them a dangerous prospect. Inky Zondi’s side essentially have nothing to lose with hardly anyone expecting them to make much noise in Pool D. With China also in the pool, it’s important for both to try and start with a win and England are expected to take the game hard to South Africa offensively.
Whilst South Africa did manage to get through the first round in 2022, they only picked up a single point and did not win a match. It’s hard to see them winning one this time around either and backing England in this particular encounter is the smart play.
England vs South Africa tip: England to win
