Burkina Faso kept their hopes of reaching the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) quarter-finals alive with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Tanzania in a fiercely contested Group B encounter.
A first-half strike from Naomi Kabré and a late winner from Balkissa Sawadogo secured a vital three points for Burkina Faso, while Tanzania’s spirited second-half response was not enough to earn a result.
Burkina Faso Take the Lead
The match was evenly balanced in the opening stages, with both teams looking to gain control of possession and create opportunities.
Burkina Faso broke the deadlock in the 43rd minute when Naomi Kabré found the back of the net, giving her side a deserved lead just before halftime. The goal provided a significant boost as Burkina Faso went into the break with a 1–0 advantage.
Tanzania Fight Back
Tanzania’s task became more difficult early in the second half after they were reduced to ten players following the dismissal of Hasnath Ubamba.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, the Twiga Stars showed tremendous resilience and equalised in the 63rd minute through Aisha Mnunka, who finished confidently to make it 1–1.
Sawadogo Scores the Winner
With the match heading towards a draw, Burkina Faso continued to push forward in search of a winning goal.
Their persistence paid off in the 80th minute when Balkissa Sawadogo struck the decisive goal, restoring Burkina Faso’s lead and ultimately sealing a crucial 2–1 victory.
Goalscorers
- 43′ – Naomi Kabré (Burkina Faso)
- 63′ – Aisha Mnunka (Tanzania)
- 80′ – Balkissa Sawadogo (Burkina Faso)
A Vital Three Points
The victory gives Burkina Faso their first win of the tournament and keeps them firmly in contention for a place in the knockout stage.
For Tanzania, the defeat is disappointing after their stunning victory over South Africa earlier in the competition. Playing much of the second half with ten players made the challenge even greater, but they showed courage and determination until the final whistle.
Final Thoughts
Burkina Faso’s 2–1 victory over Tanzania was built on resilience, determination, and clinical finishing at key moments. Goals from Naomi Kabré and Balkissa Sawadogo proved enough to secure all three points despite Tanzania’s spirited fightback through Aisha Mnunka.
With the group stage approaching its conclusion, Burkina Faso have given themselves renewed hope of reaching the quarter-finals, while Tanzania will now look to bounce back in their remaining fixture.
