Cape Town – Brothers Dayaan and Mustapha Cassiem, hailing from Mitchells Plain on the Cape Flats, have etched their names in South African sporting history by playing pivotal roles in the country’s first-ever medal at a Hockey World Cup.
Their exceptional contributions were integral to the South African Indoor Hockey Team’s stunning 6-5 victory over 3rd ranked Belgium, securing the bronze medal at the Zatika Sports Centre in Poreč, Croatia, on Sunday evening reports Telecom Asia Sport.
Proteas captain Dayaan (26) and Mustapha (22) are the sons of Abdul Aziz “Casa” Cassiem, a hockey legend whose influence shaped their careers from a young age.
Casa, a talented player himself, was a product of the Apartheid era which precluded him from representing his country. Nonetheless, he has been a constant source of resilience and inspiration for his sons, instilling in them values of hard work, humility, and discipline.
“It does not matter where you come from. It’s all about hard work and dedication,” said Abdul Aziz.
Both brothers attended Habibia Primary School in Rylands before earning scholarships to continue their hockey development at Bishops Diocesan College, one of South Africa’s elite academic and sporting schools.
The Cassiem brothers, who both play professionally in the Netherlands, have become vital role models in the South African hockey community, having both made their international debuts at the age of 18. Their partnership on and off the field has been invaluable, and their shared experience extends to their representation of South Africa at the Tokyo 2021 Olympics.
Mustapha’s extraordinary tournament performance, scoring an incredible 17 goals, was nothing short of outstanding. His remarkable achievement of being named Player of the Tournament is testament to his skill and consistency on the world stage.
POREC – FIH Indoor Hockey World Cup Croatia 2025 – South Africa’s Mustapha Cassiem was named Player of the Tournament Photo: WORLDSPORTPICS WILL PALMER
“I think the emotions say it all,” Mustapha shared, holding back tears after scoring a brilliant hat-trick to seal the historic bronze medal.
“We came here with a goal, and that is to medal. After many lows, the team pushed through. South Africa, this one’s for you, for my family, for my support. I love you all.”
His emotional response reflected the significance of the victory, not just for him but for his entire country.
His performance at the tournament marked another milestone in Mustapha’s career, raising his international tally to an astonishing 118 goals in just 47 games, manifesting his dominance in the indoor format.
In addition to his World Cup success, he was also named Young Player of the Tournament at the 2023 edition, enhancing his reputation as one of the brightest talents in world hockey.
Mustapha’s lethal finishing, composure under pressure, and skilful play were key factors in South Africa’s success, highlighting why he is regarded as one of the most exciting players in the sport.
Dayaan, the team’s skipper, spoke of the adversity they faced on their journey to this historic achievement.
“It [winning a medal] means so much to us,” Dayaan said in a post-match interview.
“At the beginning of the tour, we weren’t sure about funding, and we said it doesn’t matter about money or anything, we’re going to come here and make sure that we make the country proud.”
The skipper also praised the team’s resilience, particularly the performance of Jethro Eustice, who stepped up in the absence of injured veteran Justin Domleo.
“We’re competing with the best in the world and we’re shaping up to be a team to be noticed on the world stage,” Eustice commented.
“We’ve got some serious players on our team; I think world-class players that turned the game today.”
The victory in Croatia is a major achievement for South African hockey, showcasing the talent and determination of the team.
For the Cassiem brothers, their journey from Mitchells Plain to the global stage is testament to their hard work, dedication, and resilience. Their historic achievement in Croatia will be remembered as a defining moment in South African hockey history.
