RABAT, Morocco — In a gripping AFCON2025 Round of 16 clash on Sunday, 4 January 2026, Cameroon’s Indomitable Lions booked their place in the quarter-finals with a 2–1 victory over South Africa’s Bafana Bafana at the Al Medina Stadium.
The result sends Cameroon into the last eight to face hosts Morocco later this week, while South Africa’s promising tournament run comes to an end.
South Africa started with intensity, dominating early possession and fashioning several good chances. Relebohile Mofokeng threatened in the opening stages and Lyle Foster appeared to score, only for the effort to be ruled out for offside.
But it was Cameroon who struck first. In the 34th minute, Junior Tchamadeu reacted quickly inside the box to tap in after a rebound fell his way, giving the Indomitable Lions the lead against the run of play.
Just minutes after the restart, Cameroon doubled their lead. Christian Kofane, the 19-year-old forward, climbed highest to head in a pinpoint cross from Mahamadou Nagida in the 47th minute, making it 2–0 and swinging momentum firmly in Cameroon’s favour.
That goal underscored Cameroon’s efficiency, taking their opportunities with composure when presented, despite South Africa’s better start.
South Africa refused to wilt. In the 88th minute, substitute Evidence Makgopa met a precise delivery from Aubrey Modiba to score a powerful close-range finish, pulling one back and igniting hopes of a late turnaround.
But Cameroon’s defence and goalkeeper Devis Epassy stood firm in the closing moments, withstanding Bafana Bafana’s pressure to secure the 2–1 victory and progression.
Cameroon’s victory keeps alive their hopes of continental glory and sets up a quarter-final showdown with Morocco, a match that promises to be one of the standout ties of the AFCON 2025 knockout rounds.
For South Africa, it’s a bitter exit but one that provides valuable lessons as they look ahead to future tournaments and competitions.
