Cameroon have qualified for the quarterfinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after a thrilling 2-1 victory over South Africa in their round of 16 clash at Rabat on Sunday, Bold Sports reports.
Despite a late scare from the Bafana Bafana, the Indomitable Lions held on to seal their place in the next round after goals from Junior Tchamadeu and Christian Kofane.
Both sides enjoyed some of the ball in the opening exchanges but it was South Africa who got the early chance to score. Relebohile Mofokeng won the ball and made a run towards goal but his shot went over the bar. Striker Foster then found the back of the net in the 14th minute, but the goal was chalked off for offside.
Bafana Bafana continued to create opportunities as they pushed for the opening goal, but they were unable to convert. They came to rue that as Cameroon took the lead in the 34th minute, with Tchamadeu burying the ball past Ronwen Williams against the run of play. There was a VAR check for offside, but the goal stood, making it 1-0.
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Buoyed by the opener, Cameroon began to push for a second goal, however, South Africa were able to prevent the Indomitable Lions from extending their advantage before halftime.
Few minutes into the second half, David Pagou’s side made it 2-0 after a brilliant cross from Mahamadou Nagida was met by the head of Christian Kofane, who found the back of the net in clinical fashion, giving South Africa a mountain to climb in their quest for a comeback.
Samukelo Kabini came close to reducing the deficit from close range in the 61st minute, but his shot was saved by Epassy. The Cameroonian goalkeeper made another smart stop in the 69th minute, keeping out Mokoena’s freekick.
Moments after, Manchester United winger Mbeumo led a rapid counterattack, making an excellent drive from his own half to South Africa’s box before picking out Arthur Avom whose effort was saved by Williams.
South Africa got a late goal in the 87th minute, with substitute Evidence Makgopa stabbing the ball home after a pinpoint cross from another substitute Aubrey Maphosa Modiba, setting up an interesting finish to the game.
Hugo Broos side pushed for another late goal to level the scoreline, but Cameroon were disciplined in defense, holding on to knock South Africa out of the tournament and secure their place in the quarterfinals.
Cameroon will now face hosts Morocco, who defeated Tanzania 1-0 in their round of 16 clash. The quarterfinal will be played on Friday, January 9 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
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