Tanzania made history at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations by securing their first-ever point at the tournament with a gritty 1-1 draw against reigning champions South Africa in Oudja on Friday.
The Twiga Stars took the lead through Opah Clement, who rose to meet a cross with a looping header that caught South Africa’s Kaylin Swart off guard. Tanzania’s goal was not only their first in the tournament but also marked the first time Banyana Banyana had trailed at WAFCON under coach Desiree Ellis.
Bambanani Mbane came to South Africa’s rescue late in the game, equalising from close range after a well-delivered corner caused chaos in the box. Her finish, a neat volley, kept the champions in contention.
Tanzania showed immense discipline and nearly scored a second, only to be denied by a Karabo Dhlamini clearance off the line. Despite being reduced to ten after Elizabeth Chenge was sent off for a reckless stamp, Tanzania held on.
South Africa and Mali top Group C with four points each, while Ghana and Tanzania sit on one ahead of a tense final round of group games.
Watch the highlights below:
