Defending champions South Africa Women produced a spirited second-half comeback to secure a dramatic 2-2 draw against Ivory Coast Women in Round 2 of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). After trailing by two goals at halftime, Banyana Banyana showed the resilience of champions, with late heroics ensuring they claimed a crucial point in a thrilling encounter.
For Kenyan football fans following WAFCON 2026, the result highlights just how competitive the tournament has become, with every point proving vital in the race for the knockout stages.
Ivory Coast Take Control Early
Ivory Coast made an electric start and stunned South Africa with clinical attacking football.
The breakthrough came in the 18th minute, when G. Sery finished brilliantly after being set up by N. Ouedraogo, giving the Ivorians a deserved lead.
The duo combined once again in the 36th minute, as Ouedraogo delivered another excellent assist for Sery, who calmly slotted home her second goal of the match to double Ivory Coast’s advantage.
South Africa struggled to contain Ivory Coast’s pace and movement in the opening half and headed into the break trailing 2-0.
Champions Respond After the Break
South Africa emerged from halftime with renewed determination, introducing H. Magaia immediately after the restart in a tactical move that transformed their attacking play.
The pressure began to mount on Ivory Coast, although Sery picked up a booking in the 50th minute as the game became increasingly physical.
The breakthrough for Banyana Banyana finally arrived in the 71st minute. Star forward Thembi Kgatlana found the back of the net after a well-worked move involving R. Jane, reducing the deficit to 2-1 and reigniting South Africa’s hopes.
Late Drama Seals a Memorable Draw
The closing stages delivered high drama.
South Africa thought they had equalized deep into stoppage time when H. Magaia scored, but the goal was ruled out following a VAR review in the 94th minute, leaving the defending champions frustrated.
However, they refused to surrender.
In the 99th minute, Magaia finally got the goal she deserved, finishing brilliantly after an assist from R. Donnelly to complete an incredible comeback and rescue a deserved 2-2 draw.
The dramatic equalizer sparked celebrations among the South African players, while the Ivory Coast was left heartbroken after surrendering a two-goal lead.
Key Match Highlights
- Final Score: South Africa Women 2-2 Ivory Coast Women
- Goals:
- G. Sery (18′, 36′) – Ivory Coast
- Thembi Kgatlana (71′) – South Africa
- Hildah Magaia (90+9′) – South Africa
- Assists:
- N. Ouedraogo (2)
- R. Jane
- R. Donnelly
- Major Talking Point: South Africa scored twice after halftime, including a dramatic stoppage-time equalizer after VAR overturned an earlier goal.
What the Result Means
The draw keeps both nations firmly in contention for qualification to the WAFCON knockout stages. South Africa will be encouraged by their fighting spirit and ability to recover from adversity, while the Ivory Coast will rue missed opportunities after controlling much of the first half.
For East African supporters, including fans in Kenya, the result serves as another reminder that momentum can shift quickly in tournament football, making every remaining group-stage fixture crucial.
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Conclusion
South Africa’s dramatic comeback showcased the heart and determination that have made Banyana Banyana one of Africa’s elite teams. While Ivory Coast will be disappointed after letting victory slip away, their impressive first-half display proved they remain a formidable force in the tournament. As WAFCON 2026 intensifies, both teams remain well positioned for an exciting battle to reach the knockout rounds.
