By Francis Onyach - Reporter
Kenya, 5 January 2026 - Cameroon booked their place in the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over South Africa in the Round of 16 at the Al Medina Stadium in Rabat on Sunday.
Despite a late goal from Evidence Makgopa that sparked a late rally from South Africa, it was not enough to prevent the Indomitable Lions from advancing in the tournament.
The game began nervously for both sides, but Cameroon took control midway through the first half. Junior Tchamadeu broke the deadlock in the 34th minute, reacting first to a loose ball inside the box and finishing from close range to give the five-time champions the lead.
The goal came after sustained pressure from Cameroon and was confirmed following a VAR review.
Cameroon continued their momentum just after half-time when Christian Kofane doubled their advantage in the 47th minute. Kofane, a teenager making a strong impression at the tournament, powered a header from a precise cross into the South African penalty area to make it 2-0.
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The second goal gave Cameroon a comfortable cushion and seemed to put them on course for a quarter-final spot.
South Africa refused to give in and pushed hard in the closing stages. Substituted forward Evidence Makgopa pulled a goal back in the 88th minute, turning in a low cross to make it 2-1 and set up a dramatic finish. For a moment, it looked as though Bafana Bafana might force extra time, but Cameroon held firm and saw out the remainder of the match to secure the win.
The result ends South Africa’s hopes of progressing further in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and sets up a blockbuster quarter-final against hosts Morocco, who also advanced earlier in the day. Cameroon’s efficient finishing and resolute defending proved decisive, while Makgopa’s late strike provided hope too late for a comeback.
South Africa Falls Short as Cameroon Books AFCON Quarter-Finals Spot
Indomitable Lions Maraud Bafana Bafana
