Cameroon has advanced to the quarterfinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after a nail-biting 2-1 victory against South Africa in the round of 16 held in Rabat.

The game kicked off with a brisk pace, as South Africa seized the early initiative. Relebohile Mofokeng was a constant threat to Cameroon’s defense with his incisive runs, while striker Foster thought he had broken the deadlock in the 14th minute, only for his goal to be disallowed for offside.

Although South Africa, led by coach Hugo Broos, created several promising opportunities and maintained consistent pressure, they struggled to convert their dominance into goals.

Cameroon, on the other hand, withstood the early onslaught and gradually found their rhythm by focusing on defensive structure and discipline.

Cameroon absorbed that pressure and gradually settled, prioritising structure and discipline.

Against the run of play, the Indomitable Lions took the lead in the 34th minute when Junior Tchamadeu finished decisively past Ronwen Williams.

A VAR check followed, but the goal was upheld, shifting the momentum firmly in Cameroon’s favour heading into the break.

Cameroon extend advantage after restart

Cameroon emerged from halftime with greater intent and were rewarded early in the second half.

Mahamadou Nagida delivered a precise cross from the flank, which Christian Kofane met with a controlled header to make it 2-0, leaving South Africa with a significant task to recover.

South Africa responded by increasing their attacking urgency, but Cameroon goalkeeper Devis Epassy produced key interventions, including sharp saves to deny Samukelo Kabini and Teboho Mokoena.

Cameroon also remained dangerous on the counter, with Bryan Mbeumo leading a rapid break that nearly resulted in a third goal, only for Williams to keep his side alive.

Late scare, but Cameroon hold firm

South Africa finally found a breakthrough in the 87th minute when substitute Evidence Makgopa converted from close range after a well-weighted cross by Aubrey Modiba, setting up a tense finish.

Bafana Bafana pushed aggressively for an equaliser in the closing minutes, committing numbers forward and testing Cameroon’s defensive resolve.

However, Cameroon managed the final stages, slowing the game and maintaining their defensive shape to protect the lead.

The result confirmed their place in the quarterfinals, while South Africa bowed out despite a competitive performance.

Cameroon will now turn their attention to a quarterfinal showdown against hosts Morocco.