Bénin queens of West African handball after dramatic Zone 3 final in Ouagadougou

The final of the 2026 IHF Nations Trophy for senior women in Zone 3 unfolded on Sunday, 6 September 2026 at the Palais des Sports de Ouaga 2000. In a gripping showdown that remained uncertain until the final whistle, Benin’s national women’s team edged Côte d’Ivoire 29–28, clinching the competition’s first-ever title and earning a direct ticket to the 2026 African Women’s Handball Cup of Nations.

Beninese handball now shines in golden letters. After an intense and thoroughly controlled campaign on Burkinabè soil, the Amazones etched their names into the history of this inaugural West African senior women’s tournament. This triumph rewards the sustained groundwork by the national sporting authorities and elevates Benin among the sub-region’s leading handball nations.

A final of unbearable suspense

Against an experienced and sharp Ivorian side, the Beninese players had to dig deep to tilt the match in their favour. From the opening exchanges, the physical commitment was total, with neither team able to establish a decisive lead on the scoreboard.

The contest was decided in the dying minutes. Displaying remarkable defensive solidity and exemplary composure in organised attack, the Beninese squad preserved a precious one-goal advantage at the final whistle.

The payoff of a heroic journey

This final success culminates a memorable tournament for Benin. In the semi-finals, the Amazones had already impressed by eliminating Nigeria 38–37 after extra time, in one of the most spectacular matches of the competition.

With this victory, the Beninese handball players not only lift the Zone 3 continental trophy but also secure their place in the final phase of the 2026 Women’s African Cup of Nations, scheduled to take place in Tunisia. An ideal showcase to continue flying the national colours high at the highest level of African handball.