WOMEN
Burkina Faso needed a win, South Africa seized early advantage
The CAN Féminine 2026 group stage climax saw Le Burkina Faso desperate for a win as Sud Africa struck early, with Thembi Kgatlana scoring in the 21st minute, setting a stark contrast between the required victory and the advantage already taken.
The final day of the group phase of the Coupe d’Afrique des nations féminine was played today. All teams in Group B completed their fixtures.
In the afternoon, La Côte d’Ivoire faced la Tanzanie, while Le Burkina Faso met l’Afrique du Sud. Both matches were decisive for the group standings.
Le Burkina Faso entered the encounter needing a victory to secure qualification. A draw would have left them dependent on other results.
The first half swung in favour of l’Afrique du Sud when Thembi Kgatlana opened the scoring in the 21st minute, putting her side ahead 1‑0. The goal set the tone for the remainder of the half.
After the interval, Burkina Faso created several chances but failed to breach the South African defence. Their attacks were repeatedly repelled, leaving the score unchanged.
L’Afrique du Sud preserved the slender lead and ultimately finished second in the group, a position secured by La Côte d’Ivoire's 2‑1 victory over la Tanzanie. The win by Côte d’Ivoire ensured the South Africans' progression.
Consequently, La Côte d’Ivoire and l’Afrique du Sud are the two teams qualified from Group B, while Le Burkina Faso exits the competition. Their campaign ends without a place in the knockout stage.