Burkina Faso will look to continue their historic run at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations when they face defending champions South Africa in a decisive Group B encounter on Tuesday.
The Lady Stallions go into the match full of confidence after securing their first-ever victory at the continental tournament, a 2-1 triumph over Tanzania that transformed their campaign.
The result gave Burkina Faso their first three points in WAFCON history and sparked celebrations among players and supporters at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.
After the final whistle against Tanzania, relief turned into celebration as hundreds of Burkinabe fans watched their team mark a moment that will remain memorable in the country’s football history.
That breakthrough victory has changed the mood within the squad, with Burkina Faso entering their final group match with renewed belief and determination.
However, standing in their way are South Africa, the 2022 champions, who find themselves under pressure after a difficult start to the tournament.
Banyana Banyana have collected just one point from their opening two matches, following a defeat and a draw. Their campaign was almost ended in their previous fixture against Ivory Coast, where they needed a result to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Despite their struggles, South Africa remain one of Africa’s strongest women’s football nations. They are ranked second on the continent and 57th globally, while Burkina Faso sit 16th in Africa and 118th in the world.
The Lady Stallions, though, are refusing to be intimidated by South Africa’s reputation and past achievements.
For Burkina Faso, a victory or draw would be enough to secure progression to the knockout stage, although they are still searching for their first clean sheet at the WAFCON finals.
South Africa, meanwhile, know only a win will guarantee that their hopes of defending their continental title remain alive.
Head coach Dr Desiree Ellis believes her team’s experience in difficult situations can help them overcome the challenge.
“Over the years, this team has shown resilience. You look back at the World Cup when we were going up against Italy, we knew what we had to do and we got the victory – the resilience. Never say die until the final whistle.”
Ellis pointed to South Africa’s remarkable journey at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup as an example of the team’s ability to respond under pressure.
At that tournament, Banyana Banyana began with a defeat against Sweden before drawing with Argentina. They needed a victory against Italy in their final group game and achieved it, with Thembi Kgatlana scoring a dramatic 94th-minute winner to send them into the knockout stage for the first time in their history.
Goalkeeper Kaylin Swart echoed her coach’s belief that South Africa’s mentality could prove decisive once again.
“Our team is full of soldiers. Against Burkina Faso, it is going to be another battle and we are ready for it. We just have to look at the positives and have a strong mental toughness. It will take so much. I have a lot of faith in the team. Our spirit has never faulted.”
Swart started in goal during South Africa’s 2-2 draw against Ivory Coast, replacing Andile Dlamini, who featured in their opening 2-1 defeat against Tanzania.
History also provides encouragement for Banyana Banyana, who have avoided defeat in their final group match at the last seven editions of the tournament.
Under Ellis, South Africa have progressed beyond the group stage in each of the four WAFCON tournaments she has managed.
But Burkina Faso’s confidence and determination present another challenge for the champions, setting up a crucial encounter that could decide the future of both teams at WAFCON 2026.
The tournament is also serving as part of the qualification process for the FIFA Women’s World Cup, increasing the importance of every match as African nations compete for continental success and a place on the global stage.
