Ouagadougou witnessed a moment of pure handball magic on Sunday, September 6, 2026, as the final of the Zone 3 IHF Nations Trophy for senior women unfolded at the Palais des Sports de Ouaga 2000. In a nail-biting showdown that kept spectators on the edge of their seats until the final whistle, Benin’s national women’s team edged past Côte d’Ivoire with a narrow 29-28 victory. This triumph secured their first-ever title in this competition and guaranteed their spot at the 2026 African Women’s Handball Cup of Nations.
Benin’s handball story is now written in golden letters. Throughout an intense and meticulously controlled campaign on Burkinabè soil, the Amazones etched their names into the history of this inaugural event, which brought together West African senior women’s selections. This crowning achievement underscores the relentless groundwork laid by the country’s sports authorities and elevates Benin among the sub-region’s handball elite.
A final brimming with suspense
Facing a seasoned and sharp Ivorian side, the Beninese players had to dig deep to tilt the match in their favor. From the very start, the physical commitment was immense, with neither team able to establish a decisive lead. The contest remained undecided until the closing moments. Displaying remarkable defensive solidity and exemplary composure in their set plays, the Beninese squad managed to preserve a precious one-goal advantage as the final whistle blew.
Validating a heroic journey
This final victory is the culmination of a memorable tournament for Benin. Already in the semi-finals, the Amazones had turned heads by eliminating Nigeria in a spectacular 38-37 overtime thriller, arguably one of the most electrifying matches of the competition. With this win, the Beninese handball players not only hoisted the Zone 3 continental trophy but also punched their ticket to the 2026 Women’s African Cup of Nations finals, scheduled to take place in Tunisia. This provides an ideal platform to continue flying the national colors high on the African stage.