Cameroon has secured a place in the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals, setting up a highly anticipated match against hosts Morocco. The Indomitable Lions edged out South Africa 2-1 in a tense encounter on Sunday, demonstrating resilience and tactical prowess on the field. This victory propels Cameroon forward in the tournament, fueled by a desire to overcome past disappointments, including failing to qualify for the World Cup 2026.
South Africa, also known as Bafana Bafana, put up a strong fight at the Stade El Barida, but ultimately fell short against the five-time African champions. The match was a display of competitive football, with both teams creating significant chances and demonstrating their commitment to advancing.
What is the Africa Cup of Nations? The Africa Cup of Nations, often abbreviated as AFCON, is the premier international men’s football competition contested by the national teams of the Confederation of African Football (CAF). It is held every two years.
Cameroon’s goals came from Junior Tchamadeu and the promising teenage striker Christian Kofane. Kofane’s strike, his second in as many matches, proved crucial in securing the win for his team. Despite a late surge from South Africa, who managed to pull a goal back through substitute Evidence Makgopa, Cameroon held on for the victory.
Morocco, the tournament hosts, had already confirmed their spot in the last eight earlier on Sunday with a narrow 1-0 victory over Tanzania in Rabat. Their progression sets the stage for a compelling quarter-final clash with Cameroon.
South Africa started the match brightly, creating early opportunities. Lyle Foster missed a chance from a free-kick in the second minute, and Relebogile Mofokeng found himself with a clear run at goal after some defensive lapses, only to put his shot over the bar. These missed chances proved costly as Cameroon began to assert their dominance.
Cameroon took control of the game, with Bryan Mbeumo showcasing impressive energy and versatility by switching flanks and consistently probing the South African defense. His efforts created space and opportunities for his teammates throughout the match.
The breakthrough for Cameroon came in the 34th minute. Following a cleared corner, Carlos Baleba’s shot from the edge of the area deflected off a defender. The rebound fell kindly to fullback Junior Tchamadeu, who was in space on the left and made no mistake with an easy finish, giving Cameroon the lead.
Teenage sensation Christian Kofane extended Cameroon’s advantage just two minutes into the second half. He rose unmarked at the back post to head home a cross, marking his second consecutive goal in the tournament and giving his team a significant cushion.
South Africa fought back, looking to re-enter the contest. Samkelo Kabini had an effort cleared off the line by a Cameroon defender in the 60th minute, and Teboho Mokoena’s free-kick was well-saved by Cameroon goalkeeper Devis Epassy, pushing it around the post. These moments highlighted South Africa’s determination to equalize.
Cameroon had a chance to seal the game with a swift counter-attack approximately 20 minutes from time. However, South Africa’s goalkeeper Ronwen Williams made a crucial save to deny Arthur Avom, keeping his team’s hopes alive.
In the closing stages, South Africa applied significant pressure, laying siege to the Cameroon goal. Substitute Evidence Makgopa managed to bundle the ball over the line for a late consolation goal, but it was not enough to change the outcome of the match. Cameroon’s victory means they will face Morocco in a highly anticipated quarter-final.
