The final of the IHF Nations Trophy Women’s Zone 3 took place on Sunday 6 September 2026 at the Palais des Sports de Ouaga 2000. In a thrilling duel that remained undecided until the final whistle, Benin’s national women’s team defeated Côte d’Ivoire 29–28 to claim the competition’s inaugural title and secure a direct berth at the 2026 African Women’s Handball Nations Cup.
Beninese handball has now written its name in golden letters. After an intense and controlled campaign on Burkinabè soil, the Amazones made history in this first edition reserved for senior women’s national teams from West Africa. This triumph rewards the deep groundwork laid by the national federation and elevates Benin among the region’s leading handball nations.
A final full of suspense
Facing an experienced and sharp Ivorian outfit, the Beninese squad had to dig deep to tip the match in their favour. From the opening moments, the physical intensity was total, with neither side managing to build a decisive lead.
The encounter was decided in the dying minutes. Thanks to remarkable defensive solidity and exemplary composure in set attacks, Benin held on to a precious one-goal advantage at the final whistle.
The reward for a heroic journey
This final victory caps a memorable tournament for Benin. In the semi-finals, the Amazones had already turned heads by eliminating Nigeria 38–37 after extra time, in one of the most spectacular matches of the competition.
With this win, the Beninese players not only lifted the Zone 3 continental trophy but also punched their ticket to the 2026 Women’s African Nations Cup finals, scheduled for Tunisia. It is an ideal showcase to keep flying the national colours high at the African elite level.
