Muscat, Oman – The highly anticipated first FIH Hockey5s World Cup is set to make history in Muscat, Oman. Starting on January 24, 2024, the tournament will feature 16 women’s teams from across the globe, all aiming to be crowned the first-ever Hockey5s World Champions. The men’s teams will join the fray on January 28 for four days of high-octane hockey action in a newly constructed, state-of-the-art stadium.
Pool Draws and Competition Structure
The draw, held on September 3, 2023, has established the following pool compositions:
Women’s Teams:
- Pool A: Fiji, Malaysia, Netherlands, Oman
- Pool B: Australia, South Africa, Ukraine, Zambia
- Pool C: India, Namibia, Poland, United States
- Pool D: New Zealand, Paraguay, Thailand, Uruguay
Men’s Teams:
- Pool A: Netherlands, Nigeria, Pakistan, Poland
- Pool B: Egypt, India, Jamaica, Switzerland
- Pool C: Australia, Kenya, New Zealand, Trinidad & Tobago
- Pool D: Fiji, Malaysia, Oman, United States
After the pool phase, the top 8 teams (top 2 from each pool) will advance to the quarterfinals. Teams not qualifying for the quarterfinals will have the opportunity to compete for the FIH Hockey5s “Challenger Trophy,” a gesture initiated by FIH President Tayyab Ikram to encourage participation.
Hockey5s: A Game Changer
Hockey5s, while not a new format, has been promoted by the International Hockey Federation (FIH) in recent years to grow the sport globally, particularly in nations facing infrastructural challenges. This World Cup marks the first FIH World Cup appearance for some participating nations, highlighting the format’s accessibility and growth potential.
Characterized by 5-player teams, Hockey5s is known for its dynamic, end-to-end gameplay. The ball is in play for about 90% of a match, thanks to rebound boards along the sidelines and backlines. This format typically sees more goals scored than traditional 11-a-side hockey, as players can score from anywhere past the attacking line. Played on a smaller pitch, Hockey5s offers flexibility in hosting venues, including urban settings, aligning with its young, urban, and fun identity.
The FIH Hockey5s World Cup in Muscat represents a significant milestone in the evolution of hockey, bringing together nations from around the world to compete in this exhilarating format. As teams prepare, the anticipation builds for what promises to be a landmark event in the sport’s history.
