AFCON 2025 – Round of 16: Cameroon eliminates South Africa (2-1)

From the outset, South Africa imposed a high press and created several chances. A header from Lyle Foster (3′) and two off-target strikes from Relebohile Mofokeng (8′, 9′) illustrated their dominance. In the 14th minute, a Foster goal was disallowed for offside following a VAR review.

Against the run of play, Cameroon opened the scoring in the 34th minute. From a corner, a shot from Carlos Baleba was deflected into the path of Junior Tchamadeu, who finished with an angled shot. The Indomitable Lions went into the break with the lead (1-0).

At the start of the second half, Cameroon struck again. From a cross delivered from the left by Mahamadou Nagida, Christian Kofane beat his marker and scored with a header (47′). This second goal, his second of the tournament, put South Africa’s backs against the wall.

A late Bafana Bafana response

Driven by urgency, South Africa stepped up their attacks. Cameroonian goalkeeper Devis Epassy stood out on several occasions, notably denying an attempt from Samukelo Kabini on the line (62′). South Africa pulled a goal back in the 88th minute: from an Aubrey Modiba cross, Evidence Makgopa arrived at the far post and scored (2-1).

In stoppage time, Bafana Bafana created two more clear-cut chances, but Cameroon managed to hold on to their lead despite the pressure.

Thanks to this win, Cameroon continue their run in the competition and will face Morocco in the quarter-finals. South Africa, despite dominating in spells, exit the tournament at the round-of-16 stage after lacking attacking efficiency.