By

Eniola Olatunji 
 

Cameroon produced a stunning performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), defeating World Cup-bound South Africa 2–1 in the Round of 16 to book a quarterfinal showdown with hosts Morocco on January 9.

 

The dramatic victory in Rabat, Morocco, sparked wild celebrations among the Cameroonian contingent, with former African Footballer of the Year and President of the Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT), Samuel Eto’o, punching the air in jubilation as Kenyan referee Peter Waweru blew the final whistle.

 

South Africa, widely regarded as favourites and already qualified for the FIFA World Cup, were undone by a Cameroon side assembled in a short time for the tournament. The opening goal came in the 34th minute when Junior Tchamadeu capitalised on a ricochet off a South African defender, deftly tipping the ball into the net.

 

Cameroon doubled their advantage shortly after the restart. In the 47th minute, Christian Kofane rose above the South African defence to head home a perfectly weighted lob from Nagida Mahamadou, giving the Indomitable Lions firm control of the match.

 

Bafana Bafana, who had played fluid and confident football in the early stages, appeared rattled as the game progressed. Their struggles continued deep into the second half, though they pulled one back in the 88th minute when Aubrey Modiba set up Evidence Makgopa to score a late consolation goal. Despite a desperate attempt to restart play quickly, time ran out on the South Africans.

 

As South African players bowed their heads in disappointment, Cameroon celebrated a memorable victory, sealing their place among the last eight.

 

Even in defeat, South Africa’s night worsened as Modiba picked up a crucial yellow card in the 60th minute, ruling him out of the next CAF-organised match involving the national team.

 

Cameroon will now face tournament hosts Morocco in the quarterfinals on January 9.