Royalty-free stock photograph created by Pablo Arenas on Unsplash.
2026 HOCKEY WORLD CUP
The Spanish field hockey team has made a strong debut in the 2026 World Cup. A brace from a stellar Chefo Basterra and another goal from Marc Reyné cemented a vital victory (3-1) against South Africa in a match that Max Caldas's team dominated from the start.
The Spanish men's hockey team, the RedSticksThe team has begun its journey in the 2026 World Cup with a solid and well-deserved victory. The team, managed by Max Caldas surpassed Sudáfrica by 3-1 In a match where a dominant first half was key to securing the first three points of the championship, the talent of the Spanish attackers and a solid defense in crucial moments made the difference.
An offensive onslaught in the first half
From the opening whistle, España They demonstrated their ambition. The team launched an attack, pressing South Africa's build-up play and creating constant danger. After several near misses, the scoring was opened in the 11th minute. A long, precise pass from Iñaki Zaldúa found Marc Reyné in the area, who, with a subtle touch, deflected the ball to beat the goalkeeper Cullin de Jager and make it 1-0. The goal didn't dampen Spain's spirits; quite the opposite. Just a minute later, a play down the right flank culminated in a rebound that Chefo Basterra, very attentive, he put the ball in the net to make it 2-0.
The domain of RedSticks It was absolute. Despite the South African goalkeeper saving a penalty corner... Marc MirallesThe Spanish offensive did not let up. Five minutes before halftime, their persistence paid off once again. Chefo Basterra He controlled a ball in the area and, with a precise finish, scored his second goal of the match and the 3-0 With which the match reached halftime. A textbook first half that paved the way to victory.
South Africa reacts, but Spain seals the deal.
After the break, the script of the game changed. Sudáfrica He stepped forward, aware that he had nothing to lose, and began to put the Spanish defense under pressure. The brothers Cassiem They led the comeback, forcing several penalty corners. The Spanish defense and goalkeeper Luis Calzado They held firm until, just before the end of the third quarter, Mustapha Cassiem He found the top corner on a penalty corner kick to reduce the deficit and make it 3-1.
The final period began with a great stoppage of Luis Calzado within shooting Senzwesihle Ngubane...an intervention that proved decisive in halting the rival's momentum. From that moment on, those of Max Caldas They regained control of the game, managed possession, and neutralized any comeback attempt. Even a goal from Nico Álvarez It was disallowed by the referee. With the final whistle, España It certified a triumphant debut. Declared MVP of the gameHe himself Chefo Basterra He analyzed the match: "We played a very serious game, with an excellent first half. After halftime, we weren't as good, but it's a good learning experience for the future. We can't relax and we have to keep playing the same way in the next match." The next challenge will be next Tuesday against the powerful Australia.
Continuous newsroom for Empresa Exterior. A team specializing in real-time monitoring and writing up-to-the-minute daily news on international markets, ensuring constant updates on B2B developments.
Any questions about this news?
Talk to Coexia, the AI of the foreign trade
