New Zealand kicked off their Nations Cup title defence with a victory over Scotland in Cape Town, South Africa on Friday, while Japan came from behind to record a convincing win over Malaysia. With a win and a draw from their opening two matches, Japan now lead the Pool A standings. New Zealand sit second after collecting all three points from their first outing.

Ireland and France, the two top-ranked teams in the FIH Hockey Nations Cup men’s tournament at Hartleyvale Stadium in Cape Town, South Africa, were both victorious on the opening day, while Malaysia put their hands up as strong contenders in Pool A. Ireland started patiently before gradually but emphatically dismantling the United States team 3-0, while France were not as clinical but certainly dominant as they handed hosts South Africa a 4-2 defeat. Malaysia produced plenty of skilful hockey as they beat Scotland 5-2, while Korea and Japan drew a thrilling game 1-1, with each team dominating a half.