CAN Féminine 2026: Tanzania pulls off a shock by defeating South Africa

27.07.26 FT Africa Women Cup of Nations

South Africa W

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Tanzania W

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Thunderbolt at the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations. Tanzania delivered a stunning upset by beating South Africa 2-1, one of the tournament's heavy favorites. Thanks to this victory, the Twiga Stars seize first place in Group B while waiting for Ivory Coast vs Burkina Faso scheduled for 8PM GMT.

A heroic Tanzania until the final whistle

The Tanzanian side struck first. The crowd was left in disbelief when Diana Masewa opened the scoring after a brilliant assist from Asha Rashid. Stung into action, Banyana Banyana responded just before halftime.

In the 45+2 minute, the experienced Bamabanani Mbane, 36 years old, equalized to bring the South Africans level. The match seemed destined for a draw, but Tanzania had other ideas. In the 87th minute, Hashnat Ubamda netted the winning goal, securing a priceless three points for her team.

South Africa caught off guard

With this setback, South Africa misses the chance to claim the top spot in the group. It's a major blow for the 2022 African champions. A reminder: Banyana Banyana are competing in their 14th Women's AFCON finals, having reached the final five times between 1995 and 2018, and won bronze in 2006 and 2010.

Tanzania confirms its progress

For their part, Tanzania are making their third Women's Africa Cup of Nations appearance after 2010 and 2024. Until now, the Twiga Stars had never made it past the group stage in their previous two participations. With this prestigious victory over an African powerhouse, Tanzania kicks off their campaign in style and sends a strong message to the rest of the continent.

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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