In a historic game, Team USA defeated South Africa 13-8 to win the Nedbank International Polo title at the Inanda Polo Club in Sandton, Johannesburg, South Africa.
Trailing 5-4 at the half, the team of Steve Krueger, 5, Alan Martinez, 4, Cody Ellis, 4, and Matias “Colo” Gonzalez, 4, rallied against South Africa (William Gilson, 2, Adrian Lavarinhas, 4, Jean du Plesis, 6, Tom DeBruin, 6) in the second half to win the much-anticipated game in front of a sold-out crowd showcased by the theme Africa In Full Color.
It was only the seventh official tour to South Africa for the U.S. and its first since 2014, adding to the significance of the patriotic rivalry. It turned into one of the best performances by a U.S. team on foreign soil. The win came on the heels of winning the XIII FIP World Polo Championship qualifier against Mexico in Wellington.
In a fast-paced, physical game, Team USA broke open a close first half in the final three chukkers with a strong defensive effort that frustrated the South Africans. Team USA was able to score at will to take leads of 7-6 and 10-7 in the fourth and fifth chukkers, highlighted by a 90-yard goal by Ellis.
“They were awesome,” said a beaming U.S. coach Tommy Biddle Jr., who proudly displayed a large American flag before getting soaked by champagne spray celebration among his players after the game.
South Africa team captain Tom DeBruin added, “They were gentlemen on the field. Well done, they won fair and square and outplayed us. It wasn’t our day today.”
Team captain Krueger was Most Valuable Player. Best Playing Pony was Blueberry, played by South African-born Cody Ellis and bred and owned by his dad, Duncan Ellis.
“I really want to thank everybody for having us here and showing us the great hospitality you did,” Krueger said during the awards ceremony. “I really appreciate all the horses and horse providers. We had a great time and hope to do it again. God bless America.”
The game, presented by U.S. Polo Assn in partnership with the South African Polo Association, is one of South Africa’s premier international polo events. A staple on the Association’s calendar, the annual match brings together top talent from around the world for a showcase of high-level international competition. Team USA and South Africa were 3-3 in head-to-head competition.
“This year’s match was a true reflection of the calibre and competitive spirit of international polo,” said Guy Slater, president of the South African Polo Association.
“Welcoming the United States back to South Africa for this historic tiebreaker made for an exceptional contest, with both teams delivering a performance worthy of the occasion. It was equally encouraging to see such strong support for the sport from partners like Nedbank, contributing to a vibrant and well-supported atmosphere both on and off the field.”
A replay of the game and post-game awards and celebration can be viewed on polocamtv.
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