South Africa and Ivory Coast played out an entertaining 2–2 draw in a thrilling 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Group B encounter, with both teams showing resilience and attacking quality in a match filled with drama.
The result leaves both sides with plenty to play for as the race for a place in the knockout stages intensifies.
Ivory Coast Make a Bright Start
Ivory Coast started the match with confidence, putting South Africa under pressure with quick passing and dangerous attacking movements.
Their positive approach was rewarded when they found the opening goal, taking an early lead and forcing Banyana Banyana to respond.
South Africa Hit Back
South Africa gradually grew into the game and began to dominate possession.
Their persistence paid off as they found the equaliser before going on to take the lead with another well-worked goal, completing an impressive turnaround and putting themselves in control of the contest.
Ivory Coast Refuse to Give Up
With defeat looming, Ivory Coast continued to press forward in search of an equaliser.
Their determination was rewarded late in the match when they found the back of the net, ensuring both teams shared the points after an exciting contest.
Goalscorers
- Rebecca Elloh (Ivory Coast)
- Jermaine Seoposenwe (South Africa)
- Hildah Magaia (South Africa)
- Inès Konan (Ivory Coast)
A Valuable Point for Both Teams
The draw keeps both nations in contention for a place in the WAFCON quarter-finals.
South Africa will be encouraged by their fighting spirit after coming from behind, while Ivory Coast can take confidence from earning a point against one of Africa’s strongest women’s national teams.
What the Result Means
The result leaves Group B finely balanced, with qualification for the knockout stages still to be decided in the remaining fixtures.
Both teams know that strong performances in their final group matches will be crucial if they are to progress further in the tournament.
Final Thoughts
The 2–2 draw between South Africa and Ivory Coast was one of the most entertaining matches of the group stage so far. Both sides displayed attacking intent, resilience, and determination, providing fans with an exciting contest from start to finish.
As WAFCON 2026 continues, both South Africa and Ivory Coast remain firmly in the hunt for a place in the quarter-finals, setting up an intriguing conclusion to the group stage.
