Women's AFCON 2026: Côte d’Ivoire held to a 2-2 draw by South Africa

31.07.26 FT Africa Women Cup of Nations

South Africa W

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Côte d'Ivoire W

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Côte d’Ivoire thought they had sealed their spot in the quarterfinals of the 2026 Women's AFCON. Leading 2-0 at halftime, the Banyana Banyana snatched a dramatic 2-2 draw deep into stoppage time at Medina Stadium. A wild finish that blows Group B wide open.

Grâce-Ruth Sery puts South Africa on the ropes

Côte d’Ivoire had the perfect start. In the 18th minute, Grâce-Ruth Sery opened the scoring from a Rebeca Elloh assist. Her precise strike caught the South African defense off guard. Sery doubled the lead in the 36th minute.

Set up by Safi Ouedraogo, she bagged a brace and stunned the 2022 champions. Aggressive and solid, the Elephants went into the break with a deserved lead and one foot in the AFCON quarterfinals. With their 4-1 win over Burkina Faso, they were just 45 minutes away from sealing qualification.

Kgatlana and Magaia rescue Banyana Banyana

South Africa refused to go down without a fight. Reeling after their 2-1 defeat to Tanzania, they hit back in the 71st minute with a stunning goal from Thembi Kgatlana to reignite hope. The real drama unfolded in stoppage time. At 90+4, a South African goal was ruled out. But at 90+8, Hildah Magaia snatched the equalizer. Tremendous resilience and a crucial point for Banyana Banyana.

With this draw, Côte d’Ivoire miss the chance to qualify after just two matches. They remain provisional leaders of Group B with 4 points after their 4-2 win over Burkina Faso. South Africa pick up a crucial point and will fight for survival 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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South Africa W

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