Group B of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) exploded into action with headline-grabbing drama in Casablanca, featuring a monumental upset and a relentless goal-scoring display.
In what stands as the biggest shock of the tournament so far, Tanzania pulled off a stunning 2-1 victory over South Africa.
The Breakthrough (37′): Despite South Africa controlling the early tempo, Tanzania struck first. Diana Msewa embarked on a direct 35-yard run into the penalty box, unleashing a low strike that deflected off Bongeka Gamede and slipped into the net.
The Response: Banyana Banyana rallied quickly. After goalkeeper Fatuma Omary pulled off a brilliant save against Thembi Kgatlana, Bambanani Mbane powered home a close-range header from the resulting corner to equalize.
Missed Opportunities: Both teams traded blows in an end-to-end second half. Hasnath Ubamba threatened with a dangerous free-kick for Tanzania, while South Africa’s Nthabiseng Majiya squandered a gold-plated chance by dragging her shot wide from inside the box.
The Decisive Blow (87′): Just as a draw seemed imminent, Ubamba carved open the South African defense with a dazzling run down the left wing, cutting inside to slide a low finish past Andile Dlamini at her near post to capture a famous victory.
What it Means: Tanzania takes a massive step toward the knockout rounds ahead of their clash with Burkina Faso. Meanwhile, South Africa faces a high-stakes showdown against Côte d’Ivoire to keep their title defense alive.
Côte d’Ivoire announced their tournament ambitions with authority, putting four goals past a struggling 10-woman Burkina Faso.
Early Blitz: Rebecca Elloh set the tone by converting a 7th-minute penalty, before Ines Konan took center stage with a rapid double inside 22 minutes to give the Ivoirians a commanding lead.
Red Card Misery: Any hopes of a Burkinabè comeback vanished early in the second half when Faoziatou Ouédraogo received her marching orders, leaving Burkina Faso with 10 players.
Closing It Out: Safi N’sira added a fourth goal to put the game completely out of reach, though Adama Congo managed to net a late consolation goal for Burkina Faso.
Following the opening round of fixtures, Côte d’Ivoire and Tanzania sit level at the summit of Group B with 3 points each, setting up a thrilling battle for automatic qualification to the quarter-finals.