2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations: Group B results and standings after the first round

27.07.26 FT Africa Women Cup of Nations

Côte d'Ivoire W

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Burkina Faso W

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The opening round of Group B in the TotalEnergies 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations delivered plenty of surprises and thrilling football displays. Côte d'Ivoire and Tanzania both kicked off their campaigns in style, facing Burkina Faso and South Africa respectively.

Tanzania stun South Africa with a shock victory

No one saw this coming. The Twiga Stars pulled off the round's biggest upset by toppling the 2022 African champions, South Africa, with a 2-1 scoreline. The Tanzanians struck first through Diana Masiu, who finished off a brilliant assist from Asha Rashid.

But Banyana Banyana were quick to respond, with veteran Bambanani Mbane equalizing just before halftime in the 45+2 minute. However, Tanzania were determined to steal the spotlight. Hashnat Obamda netted the decisive winner in the 87th minute, securing three precious points for her team.

Côte d'Ivoire roar back in spectacular fashion

After a 12-year absence from the competition, the Elephants returned with a bang. Facing Burkina Faso, they cruised to a commanding 4-1 victory to top the group on goal difference. The contest was settled early, with Rebecca Eloh converting a penalty in the 7th minute. Ines Konan then bagged a quick-fire brace in the 14th and 22nd minutes, putting her side firmly in control before the break.

After Burkina Faso's goalkeeper Fouziatou Ouedraogo was sent off in the 52nd minute, their net was breached again by Safi Ouedraogo in the 55th minute. Adama Kongo managed to pull one back with a consolation goal in the 60th minute. Côte d'Ivoire's dominant and clinical display sent a clear message to their rivals in the tournament.

Group B standings after the first round

1. Côte d'Ivoire, 3 points (+3)
2. Tanzania, 3 points (+1)
3. South Africa, 0 points (-1)
4. Burkina Faso, 0 points (-3)

With these results, Group B is already shaping up to be decisive. The next round will see Côte d'Ivoire and Tanzania clash in a top-of-the-table showdown, while South Africa will look to bounce back against Burkina Faso.

Nafongo TRAORE |

News Editorfr, ar, en

Nafongon Moussa TRAORE, Burkinabè de 25 ans, est passionné de football, est rédacteur pour Foot Africa et commentateur pour BurkiFoot.

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Côte d'Ivoire W

Burkina Faso W

Africa Women Cup of Nations