Group B of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations remains delicately poised after South Africa produced a dramatic second-half comeback to salvage a 2-2 draw against Côte d’Ivoire, while Burkina Faso claimed a historic 2-1 victory over 10-player Tanzania to throw the race for the quarter-finals wide open.
After suffering a shock opening defeat to Tanzania, South Africa looked set for another disappointing outing when Côte d’Ivoire stormed into a two-goal lead at the Stade Père Jégo on Friday.
The Lady Elephants dominated the opening half and were rewarded in the 18th minute when 18-year-old Grace Sery finished off a swift counterattack to beat Kaylyn Swart, who started in goal for Banyana Banyana.
The teenage sensation struck again before the break, latching onto a perfectly weighted lob from N’sira Ouedraogo before calmly slotting home to complete her brace and hand Côte d’Ivoire a commanding 2-0 advantage.
Grace Sery celebrates her goal with Fofana (Credit: CAF Women on X)
