Cameroon progressed to the quarterfinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after edging South Africa 2-1 in a tightly contested round of 16 fixture in Rabat.

The match opened at a high tempo, with South Africa enjoying more initiative in the early stages.

Despite creating promising openings and applying sustained pressure, Hugo Broos’ side lacked the cutting edge required to translate possession into goals.

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.

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.