CASABLANCA, Morocco — South Africa’s Banyana Banyana were handed a major early setback at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after suffering a dramatic 2-1 defeat to Tanzania in their opening Group B encounter on Monday afternoon.
Despite dominating possession for large periods and creating several promising opportunities, the defending continental champions were left frustrated by missed chances and a late defensive lapse that allowed the resilient Twiga Stars to claim a memorable victory.
Under the guidance of head coach Dr. Desiree Ellis, South Africa showed flashes of their attacking quality but struggled to find the cutting edge required to turn their dominance into goals.
A Promising Start for Banyana Banyana
Banyana Banyana began the match with confidence, immediately putting Tanzania’s defence under pressure. The attacking combination of Thembi Kgatlana and Noxolo Cesane caused problems from the opening whistle, while experienced striker Hildah Magaia also came close to breaking the deadlock.
South Africa continued to pile on the pressure, with Karabo Dhlamini coming closest when her powerful strike rattled the crossbar.
However, football’s famous warning of “missed chances coming back to haunt you” became reality when Tanzania struck against the run of play.
In the 37th minute, a quick counter-attack opened space for Diana Msewa, who drove towards the penalty area before her low effort took a cruel deflection off defender Bongeka Gamede and found the back of the net.
Mbane Restores Hope as Milestone Moment Arrives
Banyana Banyana responded immediately, refusing to be shaken by the setback.
After Tanzania goalkeeper Najiat Abass produced a brilliant save to deny Kgatlana, South Africa earned a corner and made the opportunity count.
A defensive mix-up in the box allowed veteran defender Bambanani Mbane to rise highest and force the ball home from close range, bringing South Africa level and celebrating another important moment in her impressive international career.
The match also carried special significance for midfielder Linda Motlhalo, who marked a remarkable milestone by earning her 100th international cap for Banyana Banyana.
Tanzania Deliver Late Blow
With the score level heading into the closing stages, both teams searched desperately for a decisive moment.
South Africa came agonisingly close when Nthabiseng Majiya found herself in a promising position but sent her close-range effort wide of the target.
That missed opportunity proved costly.
In the 87th minute, Tanzania delivered the decisive blow. Rising star Hasnath Ubamba, just 20 years old, produced a moment of individual brilliance as she cut inside from the left flank before firing a low strike beyond goalkeeper Andile Dlamini at the near post.
The goal sparked celebrations among the Tanzanian players and secured one of the biggest victories in their WAFCON history.
Banyana Banyana Face Fight for Survival
The defeat leaves the reigning champions with plenty of work to do in Group B.
Banyana Banyana will now need to regroup quickly, improve their finishing in front of goal, and respond strongly in their remaining fixtures against Ivory Coast and Burkina Faso.
With qualification hopes for the knockout stages — and the crucial pathway towards the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup — still alive, South Africa must show the resilience and championship mentality that has defined their recent success on the continent.
The road to defending their WAFCON crown has not started as planned, but the tournament is far from over.
