South Africa's women thrashed Kenya at the continental event ©African Hockey Federation/Facebook

South Africa's men and women continued their strong starts as they seek successful title defences in their respective tournaments at the Africa Cup of Nations in Egyptian city Ismailia.

The men's team, who are chasing an eighth successive title, enjoyed an opening bye yesterday following the withdrawal of Zambia.

They were only put under slightly more pressure today in a 9-1 thrashing of Nigeria at the Suez Canal Hockey Stadium.

It comes in a round-robin stage which will be followed by knock-out matches.

Hosts Egypt also gained a second successive win after a 4-1 success against Kenya.

They beat Nigeria 13-1 yesterday as they seek to end a run of five straight final losses and secure a first win since 1989.

Egypt's men have also started well as their home event ©African Hockey Federation/Facebook
Egypt's men have also started well as their home event ©African Hockey Federation/Facebook

South Africa's women, meanwhile, gained a second straight 5-0 win.

They thrashed Kenya yesterday and then Nigeria today as they seek a seventh successive title.

Ghana, the defending silver medallists, began well with a 2-1 success over Kenya today.

The winners of both tournaments will book their places at next year's World Cups.

Action will continue on Thursday (October 25) after a rest day tomorrow.