As the 2024 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) heads into the quarterfinal stage, four teams—DR Congo, Tunisia, Tanzania, and Botswana—bid farewell to the tournament. Though their journeys have ended, each team departs with heads held high after delivering moments of grit, pride, and inspiration.
Botswana’s Brave Comeback Ends in Heartbreak
On July 14 in Casablanca, Botswana secured a thrilling 2-1 comeback win over Tunisia, but the victory wasn’t enough to see them through to the next round.
After trailing 1-0 at halftime, the Mares staged an impressive turnaround, displaying unity and resilience. However, their fate was sealed when Ghana cruised to a 4-1 victory over Tanzania, claiming the final quarterfinal spot.
Though their elimination was painful, Botswana leaves the tournament with dignity, having won admiration for their fighting spirit.
Flavine Mawete Lights Up Rabat with Stunning Goal
In one of the standout moments of the tournament, DR Congo’s Flavine Mawete silenced a packed Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium with a moment of brilliance.
Amidst a crowd of 21,000 Moroccan fans, Mawete unleashed a breathtaking left-footed equalizer that briefly stunned the home crowd. Her goal, more than just a technical marvel, became a powerful symbol of resilience and belief.
The 25-year-old winger’s strike has already etched itself into WAFCON folklore.
Tanzania Nearly Topple Defending Champions
Tanzania’s Twiga Stars came agonizingly close to pulling off a major upset against defending champions South Africa.
Opa Clement gave Tanzania a deserved 24th-minute lead after solid teamwork and tireless midfield play, particularly from Diana Msewa. South Africa struggled to respond until the 70th minute when Bambanani Mbane fired in a late equalizer from a scrappy corner clearance.
The 1-1 result felt like a moral victory for Tanzania, whose determined display earned them widespread respect.
Tunisian Fans Create Home Away from Home
While Tunisia’s journey ended short of the knockout stage, their fans were a highlight of the tournament. Traveling over 1,700 kilometers to Casablanca, they filled the Stade Père Jégo with nonstop chants, flags, and an electric presence.
“We felt their energy from the warm-up,” said captain Chaima Abbassi. “It gave us a tremendous boost.”
Their passionate support turned every match into a home game, lifting the team’s performances and creating unforgettable memories.
Departing with Pride, Inspiring the Future
Though DR Congo, Tunisia, Tanzania, and Botswana will not continue in WAFCON 2024, their impact remains undeniable. Each team showcased courage, passion, and growth—laying down strong foundations for the future and leaving a mark that transcends results.
