South Africa and Tanzania Battle to a Draw in Wafcon Group C

In a thrilling encounter at the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon), South Africa and Tanzania played to a 1-1 draw in Group C. The match, held in Oujda, saw veteran defender Bambanani Mbane rescue a point for the defending champions.

First Half: Tanzania Takes the Lead

Tanzania's Twiga Stars started strong, with captain Opah Clement opening the scoring in the 24th minute. Clement's header from a free-kick beat South Africa goalkeeper Kaylin Swart, who might have done better with her positioning.

Second Half: South Africa Fights Back

South Africa's coach Desiree Ellis made a double substitution at half-time, injecting more energy into the team. The holders leveled the score in the 70th minute when Mbane found the net with a shot following a corner.

Late Drama: Tanzania Down to 10 Players

The game took a dramatic turn in the 84th minute when Tanzania's Winfrida Gerald was shown a straight red card after a video assistant referee check for a poor clip from behind on the ankles of Linda Motlhalo.

Group C Standings

With this result, South Africa moved back to the top of Group C, level on four points with Mali but ahead on goal difference. Tanzania's first point keeps their hopes alive for the knockout stages, but they must beat Ghana in their final game to have a chance of progressing.

Analysis: Increasing Competitiveness in African Women's Football

Despite being 83 places apart in the world rankings, Tanzania tested South Africa's vulnerabilities, particularly from set-pieces. This match highlights the growing competitiveness of women's football in Africa.

Key Moments

• 24th Minute: Opah Clement scores for Tanzania.
• 70th Minute: Bambanani Mbane equalizes for South Africa.
• 84th Minute: Winfrida Gerald sent off for Tanzania.

Looking Ahead

South Africa will face Mali in the final round of games, while Tanzania must defeat Ghana to keep their knockout stage hopes alive. The path to defending the title for South Africa may prove more challenging than in 2022.