2026 WAFCON: Tanzania Upset South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire Cruise Past Burkina Faso

2026 WAFCON: Tanzania Upset South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire Cruise Past Burkina Faso

By Niyi Busari 

Matchday Two of the 2026 CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations produced its first major surprises, with Tanzania stunning defending champions South Africa, while Côte d'Ivoire marked their long-awaited return to the continental tournament with a commanding victory over Burkina Faso, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Tanzania Secure Historic Victory Over South Africa

Tanzania kicked off their Group B campaign in memorable fashion, defeating former champions South Africa 2-1 at the Moulay Rachid Stadium in Casablanca on Monday evening.

Facing South Africa for the third time in WAFCON history and for the second consecutive edition in the group stage, the East Africans entered the contest determined to make history after previously recording one defeat and one draw against Banyana Banyana.

Tanzania showed early intent, with captain Opa Tukumbuke testing the South African defense before finally taking the lead in the 37th minute. Diana Msewa capitalized on a defensive lapse, beating Bongeka Gamede before calmly finishing past goalkeeper Andile Dlamini.

South Africa responded after the break and eventually found an equalizer, but Tanzania refused to settle for a point. Substitute Hasnath Ubamba emerged as the hero in the 86th minute, turning her marker before firing a low strike beyond Dlamini to seal a famous victory.

The result hands Tanzania a valuable three points ahead of their next Group B encounter against Burkina Faso, while South Africa will be looking to bounce back against Côte d'Ivoire.

Côte d'Ivoire Return in Style

Earlier in Casablanca, Côte d'Ivoire celebrated their return to the Women's Africa Cup of Nations after a 12-year absence with an impressive 4-1 victory over Burkina Faso at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium.

The Lady Elephants dominated the opening half of the West African derby, taking control through Rebecca Elloh's penalty before Ines Konan added a brilliant brace. Rosemonde Kouassi and Nsira Ouedraogo both registered assists as Côte d'Ivoire showcased their attacking quality.

Burkina Faso briefly threatened a comeback early in the second half when Adama Congo finished off a well-worked move created by Balkissa Sawadogo. However, Côte d'Ivoire quickly restored their three-goal advantage, with Ouedraogo finding the back of the net to complete an emphatic 4-1 victory.

The convincing win gives Reynald Pedros' side a dream start to their Group B campaign and sets up a highly anticipated clash with defending champions South Africa in the next round of fixtures.

Group B Standings Take Shape

Following Matchday Two, Tanzania and Côte d'Ivoire sit at the top of Group B with three points each after impressive opening victories. South Africa and Burkina Faso will now be under pressure to respond when the group resumes on Friday in what promises to be decisive fixtures for qualification to the knockout stage.

Results

- South Africa 1–2 Tanzania

- Côte d’Ivoire 4–1 Burkina Faso

Tanzania Secure Historic Victory Over South Africa