LIVE! South Africa vs. Côte d'Ivoire | WAFCON 2026 on beIN SPORTS

The WAFCON 2026 group stage continues with a match that could shape the outcome of Group B. South Africa, one of the strongest teams in African women's football and the 2022 WAFCON champion, is looking to bounce back after losing its opening match against Tanzania, while Côte d'Ivoire hopes to build on its impressive first-round victory and move one step closer to the quarterfinals.

Don't miss the match between South Africa and Côte d'Ivoire LIVE on beIN SPORTS.

The team coached by Desiree Ellis enters this match under pressure after a 2-1 loss to Tanzania, a result that ended its nine-match unbeaten run in the WAFCON group stage.

Despite the defeat, the overall performance offered some positives. South Africa controlled much of the match, recorded 24 shots, including nine on target, but paid the price for its lack of finishing in front of goal.

From a tactical standpoint, Desiree Ellis continues to rely on a possession-based approach, high pressing, and constant movement through midfield. Players such as Linda Motlhalo and Refiloe Jane are responsible for creating the team's attacking play, while the experience of Bambanani Mbane will be crucial in containing Côte d'Ivoire's dangerous attack.

The Banyana Banyana know that another defeat would seriously damage their hopes of reaching the knockout stage.

Côte d'Ivoire Looks to Build on an Impressive Start

On the other side is a Côte d'Ivoire team that produced one of the standout performances of the opening round with an emphatic 4-1 victory over Burkina Faso.

The Ivorians displayed an aggressive, vertical style of football, attacking quickly after winning possession. Their efficiency was one of the biggest reasons behind the victory, scoring four goals from just 12 total shots.

The standout performer was Inès Konan, who scored twice, while N'Sira Safi Ouédraogo delivered a goal, an assist, and an outstanding all-around performance. Their pace on the wings and quick transitions have already made Côte d'Ivoire one of the tournament's most dangerous attacking teams.

A second consecutive victory would put the Ivorians in an excellent position to secure a place in the quarterfinals.

A Match With WAFCON History

This will be only the second meeting between these two nations in the WAFCON. Their only previous encounter came in the third-place match of the 2014 tournament, when Côte d'Ivoire defeated South Africa 1-0 thanks to a late goal from Ida Guehai.

This time, the stakes are much higher. South Africa desperately needs points to stay alive in the tournament, while Côte d'Ivoire has the opportunity to take a major step toward the knockout rounds.