Opah Clement heads Tanzania ahead
Tanzania stunned the defending champions in the 24th minute when Opah Clement rose tallest to nod in a free‑kick from Ester Maseke, sending goalkeeper Kaylin Swart the wrong way and giving the hosts an early lead.
Mbane levels the score
South Africa mounted a determined second-half fightback. Amid sustained pressure, Bambanani Mbane equalised in the 70th minute, following a well-worked corner involving Lebohang Ramalepe, restoring parity for Banyana.
Drama late on as Chenge sees red
The match took another twist in the 84th minute when Tanzania's Elizabeth Chenge received a straight red card for a harsh foul on Linda Motlhalo, following VAR intervention. Despite being reduced to ten, Tanzania held firm deep into stoppage time, denying the South Africans a decisive winner.
Match statistics and implications
South Africa maintained top spot in Group C with four points—level on points with Mali but ahead on goal difference—while Tanzania secured their first tournament point. The draw leaves the group wide open, with both teams set for crucial final group-stage matches: South Africa against Mali and Tanzania against Ghana.
Coach and player reflections
South Africa coach Desiree Ellis emphasised the need to convert dominance into victory, noting that the substitutions injected urgency into the game. Tanzania coach Bakari Shime commended his side's bravery and resilience, particularly after being reduced to ten players.
Line-ups and key events
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Tanzania (4‑2‑3‑1): Idrisa; Singano, Maseke, Chenge, Kabambo; Minja, Athumani; M’Sewa, Katunzi, Clement; Lunyamila.
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South Africa (4‑1‑4‑1): Swart; Dhlamini, Mbane, Mhlongo, Magama; Cesane; Holweni, Motlhalo, Jane, Seoposenwe; Mohlakoana.
Goalscorers
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Tanzania – Opah Clement (24′)
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South Africa – Bambanani Mbane (70′)
Disciplinary action
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Tanzania – Elizabeth Chenge (yellow, 75′; red, 84′).
Looking ahead
With Group C unsettled, South Africa's final match against Mali on Monday could determine if they top the group. Meanwhile, Tanzania will seek their first win when they face Ghana in their group finale.
This result keeps South Africa on course for the knockout stage but highlights potential vulnerabilities, while Tanzania's spirited performance positions them as dark horse challengers.