WAFCON 2026: South Africa hold Côte d’Ivoire as Burkina Faso edge Tanzania in thrilling Group B battle

The 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Group B qualifiers delivered thrilling action, with South Africa mounting a remarkable comeback to secure a 2-2 draw against Côte d’Ivoire. After a disappointing opening defeat, South Africa found themselves trailing 2-0 at halftime, with 18-year-old Grace Sery scoring both goals for the Lady Elephants. However, Banyana Banyana emerged with renewed determination in the second half.

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The Lady Elephants dominated the opening half and were rewarded in the 18th minute when 18-year-old Grace Sery finished off a swift counterattack to beat Kaylyn Swart, who started in goal for Banyana Banyana.

Captain Refilwe Jane set up Thembi Kgatlana for South Africa's first goal in the 71st minute, halving the deficit with a superb curling effort. The momentum shifted entirely, culminating in Hildah Magaia's equalizer late in the game, securing a crucial point for South Africa. Despite the draw, Côte d’Ivoire remains at the top of the group with four points, while South Africa sits at the bottom with one point.

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The teenage sensation struck again before the break, latching onto a perfectly weighted lob from N’sira Ouedraogo before calmly slotting home to complete her brace and hand Côte d’Ivoire a commanding 2-0 advantage.

In the other Group B match, Burkina Faso achieved a significant 2-1 victory over Tanzania, boosting their chances of reaching the quarter-finals. Adele Kabré opened the scoring for the Lady Stallions before halftime. Tanzania's hopes were dealt a blow when Hasnath Ubamba was sent off in the second half. Despite being a player down, Tanzania equalized through Aisha Mnunka, but Balkissa Sawadogo scored the decisive goal for Burkina Faso with 10 minutes remaining.

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Their persistence paid off in the 71st minute when captain Refilwe Jane picked out Thembi Kgatlana, whose superb curling effort flew beyond Aramatou Diakite to halve the deficit.

The results have created a highly unpredictable Group B, with Côte d’Ivoire leading on four points, followed by Tanzania and Burkina Faso, who are level on points. The race for the quarter-finals remains wide open.

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With 10 minutes remaining, Bilkissa Sawadogo struck the decisive goal to hand the Lady Stallions all three points and their first victory of the tournament, ensuring they remain firmly in contention for a place in the knockout stages.