Cameroon secured a place in the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a composed 2–1 victory over South Africa in their last-16 encounter on Sunday in Rabat.
Goals either side of half-time from Junior Tchamadeu and teenage forward Christian Kofane proved decisive, as the five-time champions showed their experience to edge past Bafana Bafana at Al Medina Stadium.
The Indomitable Lions took the lead in the 34th minute after South Africa failed to deal with a corner. Carlos Baleba’s effort from the edge of the area was deflected into the path of Tchamadeu, who finished calmly from close range. After a lengthy VAR review, the goal stood, prompting celebrations among the Cameroonian supporters, with federation president and legend Samuel Eto’o watching from the stands.
South Africa had enjoyed promising moments earlier in the contest. Relebohile Mofokeng squandered a clear early chance, while Lyle Foster later found the net only to see his effort ruled out for offside.
Any hopes of a strong start to the second half for South Africa were dashed when Cameroon doubled their lead just two minutes after the restart. Substitute Mahamadou Nagida delivered an inviting cross from the left, and Bayer Leverkusen youngster Kofane rose to head in his second goal of the tournament.
Cameroon goalkeeper Devis Epassy was instrumental in preserving the advantage, making fine saves from Samukele Kabini and a threatening Teboho Mokoena free-kick. South Africa eventually pulled a goal back in the 88th minute when Evidence Makgopa converted Aubrey Modiba’s low cross, setting up a tense finish.
Despite late pressure, Cameroon held on to seal their progression to the last eight, where they will face hosts Morocco in a heavyweight quarter-final on Friday. With the spotlight firmly on the hosts as they chase a first AFCON title in 50 years, Cameroon head into the clash with confidence following a turbulent but ultimately successful tournament so far.
South Africa exit the competition disappointed after their third-place finish at the previous AFCON, but attention now turns to their World Cup qualifying campaign.
