Cameroon advanced to the quarter-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 with a 2-1 victory over South Africa in Rabat. Junior Tchamadeu and Christian Kofane scored for the Indomitable Lions, while Evidence Makgopa's late goal made for a tense finish. The win sets up a potential blockbuster clash for Cameroon in the next round.
The match at Al Medina Stadium began cautiously, with both teams adjusting to the intensity of the knockout stage. Cameroon struck first in the 34th minute when Junior Tchamadeu fired a low shot past Ronwen Williams after a corner from Samuel Kotto. South Africa responded with efforts from Teboho Mokoena and Lyle Foster, but goalkeeper Devis Epassy kept them at bay.
Early in the second half, Cameroon doubled their lead in the 47th minute as Christian Kofane headed in a cross from Aboubakar Nagida. South Africa coach Hugo Broos introduced substitutes including Evidence Makgopa and Aubrey Modiba to mount a comeback. Despite pressure from Khuliso Mudau and others, Cameroon's defense held firm until the 88th minute, when Makgopa converted a low cross from Modiba to pull one back.
A flurry of attacks in stoppage time followed, but South Africa could not equalize, allowing Cameroon to secure progression. South Africa's starting lineup featured Williams in goal, with defenders like Sibisi and Mudau, and attackers including Foster and Appollis. Cameroon lined up with Epassy behind a backline of Tchamadeu, Malone, and Tolo, supported by midfielders like Ngameni and forwards Avon and Kofane.
Relebohile Mofokeng, who made his AFCON debut as a substitute against Egypt, reflected on the challenge ahead of the game. "We are very happy to be a part of the last 16, we are tired, but we can't give up now," he said, crediting his CAF Champions League experience with Orlando Pirates for preparing him. "In Champions League, you get to witness competitive football, the physicality, the energy," Mofokeng added. Despite limited minutes, he emphasized team mentality: "We need to bring our A Game so that we can beat their physicality and energy."
Cameroon's victory highlights their resilience, while South Africa's exit ends a campaign that saw them advance from a tough group. The result underscores the fine margins in AFCON knockouts.
