Tanzania pulled off the first major upset of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), defeating South Africa 2-1 in a thrilling Group B encounter in Casablanca, Morocco.
Diana Msewa opened the scoring in the 38th minute with a stunning solo effort after a dazzling run from midfield. South Africa responded just before the break as Bambanani Mbane headed home from close range in first-half stoppage time to level the score.
With the match seemingly heading for a draw, Hasnath Ubamba produced another moment of brilliance in the 87th minute, outpacing her marker before firing past goalkeeper Andile Dlamini from a tight angle to seal a famous victory for the Twiga Stars.
Msewa was named Player of the Match after her outstanding display and spectacular opening goal.
Ranked 65 places below South Africa in the FIFA rankings, Tanzania’s victory marks the tournament’s first major shock and puts them at the top of Group B, which also features Burkina Faso and Côte d’Ivoire.
The result is a significant boost to Tanzania’s hopes of reaching the knockout stage while handing South Africa an unexpected setback in their opening match.
