South Africa started with good intent, but Belgium soon quelled their opponents’ efforts, stretching to a five goal lead (7-2) by the end of the first 15 minutes. Good long shots from Bart Cleyman and Jens Van Hoof were a particular feature, but it was a team performance by the world’s second ranked team, who were a class ahead of their spirited African opponents and demonstrated what fluidity and polish they have. By half time it was 16-3.

Belgium continued to ooze class in the second half, with Sari Janssens scoring well. South Africa were honest and eager, but not able to match the speed of thought and action of the former world champion. Despite their heavy defeat, South Africa demonstrated enough to suggest that they should probably be a factor later in this group, and so long as they can recover from this, will probably make life difficult for Australia and Poland. Second half substitute Detlef Elewaut caught the eye towards the end with some fine long shots. Final score: 32-7.

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