Tanzania Women stun South Africa 2–1 in CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations thriller

Tanzania Women produced a remarkable upset on 28 July 2026, coming from behind to defeat South Africa Women 2‑1 in a Group‑stage match of the CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations. The game, played at a neutral venue with a 01:00 kick‑off, saw the underdogs show immense character after falling behind early in the second half.

South Africa take control but fail to kill the game

South Africa, the tournament favourites, dominated possession in the opening period and created several chances through striker Thembi Kgatlana. However, it was not until the 53rd minute that they finally broke the deadlock: midfielder Refiloe Jane curled a free‑kick over the wall and into the top corner to give Banyana Banyana a deserved lead.

Despite pressing for a second goal, South Africa were caught on the counter‑attack in the 68th minute. Tanzania’s Ophira Mbilinyi latched onto a through ball and slotted calmly past South Africa goalkeeper Kaylin Swart to level the score.

Dramatic turnaround

Buoyed by the equaliser, Tanzania grew in confidence and stunned the South Africans with a second goal in the 81st minute. A corner kick was met by defender Anita Banda, whose header found the net via a deflection off a South Africa defender. Tanzania defended resolutely in the closing stages to secure a famous victory.

• Possession: South Africa 62% – 38% Tanzania
• Total shots: 14 (5 on target) vs 8 (4 on target)
• Yellow cards: 2 (South Africa) – 3 (Tanzania)

Group‑stage impact

The result throws Group A wide open. South Africa, widely expected to top the group, now face a must‑win match in their next fixture to avoid an early exit. Tanzania, meanwhile, move into second place with three points and renewed belief that they can challenge for a quarter‑final berth. Head coach Bakari Shomari described the win as “a milestone for Tanzanian women’s football. The players showed incredible fight and composure under pressure.”

Player of the match honours went to Tanzania’s Ophira Mbilinyi, whose goal and tireless running caused constant problems for the South Africa defence. With two group matches remaining, the tournament is already delivering high drama.