WAFCON: Inspired Tanzania surprise with draw against defending champions South Africa

Defending champions South Africa were forced to battle back for a 1-1 draw with a scrappy Tanzania side in Friday’s late Group C clash from the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) at the Stade d’Honneur in Oujda, Morocco.

Tanzania forward Opa Clement’s perfectly placed first half header dealt a firm reality check to let South Africa’s Banyana Banyana know that they were not in for a routine victory.

Fortunately for the reigning champions, Bambanani Mbane’s second half equalizer spared their blushes somewhat as the teams settled for a share of the points. South Africa struggled to find a way past a well organized Twiga Stars defense and the positive start allowed the East African side to gain confidence over the course of the match.

Clement’s opener came from a 24th minute free kick that did not appear to be dangerous, but the Mexican-based forward produced a magical header that left Banyana keeper Kaylin Swart scrambling in vain to get to the ball. It was the first time that Banyana had conceded first under renowned head coach Desiree Ellis.

But an inevitable rally saw the heavy favorites fight back. A 70th minute short corner went to Mamelodi Sundowns fullback Lebogang Ramalepe and her cross was perfect to find the run of club teammate Mbane, who crashed in to volley past Twiga Stars goalkeeper Najat Idrisa.

Tanzania went down to ten women after Elizabeth Chenge was sent off in the 84th minute but the Twiga Stars held on for their first point at the competition, keeping them in contention to qualify for the quarterfinals. Despite the surprise result, Banyana Banyana move back to the top of the group, level with Mali on four points.

South Africa finish Group C play against co-leaders Mali on Monday while Tanzania will battle Ghana with both teams needing a victory to advance.

Group C Table (2 games played)