Cameroon overcome South Africa in tense battle to seal AFCON quarterfinal spot
Cameroon booked their place in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after edging past South Africa 2–1 in an entertaining Round of 16 encounter on Sunday night.
The Indomitable Lions took control early, opening the scoring in the 34th minute when Junior Tchamadeu pounced on a corner kick and fired a right-footed strike into the heart of the goal. The breakthrough unsettled South Africa, who found it difficult to impose themselves as the first half wore on.
Cameroon strengthened their grip on the match shortly after the restart. In the 47th minute, Christian Kofane rose highest to head home a pinpoint cross from Aboubakar Nagida, doubling his side’s advantage and putting them firmly in command.
South Africa refused to surrender and were rewarded late in the game. Evidence Makgopa reduced the deficit in the 88th minute with a close-range finish after Aubrey Modiba delivered a dangerous cross into the box, setting up a nervy finale.
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Spurred on by the late goal, South Africa pressed relentlessly for an equaliser, winning a flurry of corners and free kicks in stoppage time. Makgopa came agonisingly close with a header that drifted just wide, but Cameroon’s defence held firm to see out the victory.
At the final whistle, Cameroon celebrated a hard-earned win that keeps their AFCON title ambitions alive. They now turn their attention to the quarterfinals, confident after showcasing their experience, composure, and tactical discipline on the continental stage.
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