Two rounds into the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, the tournament is beginning to reveal the genuine title challengers.

Matchday 2 delivered resilience, surprise results, defensive masterclasses and plenty of drama, leaving several teams on the brink of the quarter-finals while others head into the final group games with everything to play for.

A total of 20 goals were scored across the eight fixtures, with some of Africa’s biggest stars once again making the difference.

Matchday 2 Results

• Senegal 1-0 Kenya
• Morocco 1-0 Algeria
• South Africa 2-2 Côte d’Ivoire
• Burkina Faso 2-1 Tanzania
• Egypt 1-3 Malawi
• Nigeria 1-0 Zambia
• Cameroon 1-0 Ghana
• Mali 3-2 Cape Verde

Talking Points

Nigeria bounce back in style

After their opening defeat, the Super Falcons responded with the performance of champions. Asisat Oshoala’s early goal proved enough to beat Zambia, but the victory became even more impressive after Tosin Demehin’s first-half red card forced Nigeria to play over an hour with ten players. It was a display of resilience that has put the Falcons firmly back in contention.

Malawi continue to shock Africa

If there is one team stealing the headlines, it is Malawi. Their convincing 3-1 victory over Egypt made it two wins from two and confirmed they are no longer just outsiders, they are genuine contenders capable of troubling anyone in Morocco.

Morocco remain perfect

The hosts edged neighbours Algeria 1-0 in another disciplined display. Two wins from two have strengthened Morocco’s grip on Group A and kept alive hopes of lifting the continental title on home soil.

South Africa show fighting spirit

The defending champions looked set for defeat before battling back to earn a 2-2 draw against Côte d’Ivoire. It may only be a point, but it could prove crucial in the race for qualification.

Cameroon take control

A narrow 1-0 victory over Ghana sent Cameroon to the top of their group and secured a place in the quarter-finals with a game to spare, underlining their credentials as one of the tournament’s strongest defensive sides.

Mali survive a thriller

Mali were pushed all the way by Cape Verde before emerging 3-2 winners in one of the most entertaining matches of the round. The victory keeps their qualification hopes alive heading into Matchday 3.

Standout Players

• Jennifer Echegini (Nigeria) – Controlled the midfield with composure and energy, helping the Super Falcons see out the game after going down to ten players. Her work rate, ball retention and defensive contributions were instrumental in Nigeria’s hard-fought victory over Zambia.
• Temwa Chawinga (Malawi) – Continued her outstanding tournament with another influential display as Malawi made it two wins from two.
• Sanaa Mssoudy (Morocco) – Produced another match-winning moment to keep the hosts on a perfect record.
• Grace Sery (Côte d’Ivoire) – She stole the spotlight with a brilliant brace against South Africa, putting Côte d’Ivoire in control before Banyana Banyana fought back to earn a 2-2 draw. Her clinical finishing and commanding display made her one of the standout performers of Matchday 2.

Matchday 3 Fixtures

• Morocco vs Senegal
• Algeria vs Kenya
• South Africa vs Burkina Faso
• Côte d’Ivoire vs Tanzania
• Nigeria vs Egypt
• Zambia vs Malawi
• Ghana vs Mali
• Cameroon vs Cape Verde

The Bigger Picture

With one round of group matches remaining, Morocco and Cameroon have laid down strong markers, Malawi have emerged as the tournament’s surprise package, and Nigeria have reignited their campaign after a spirited response. Meanwhile, several groups remain finely balanced, setting up a thrilling Matchday 3 where quarter-final places, group winners and dreams of continental glory will all be on the line.