Cameroon sealed a hard-fought 2–1 win over South Africa in Rabat, keeping their composure under sustained pressure to book a place in the quarter-finals.
The Indomitable Lions weathered an early storm as Bafana Bafana controlled possession and fashioned the better chances in the opening exchanges. South Africa, however, was repeatedly frustrated by goalkeeper Devis Epassy and a lack of cutting edge in front of goal. Against the run of play, Cameroon struck in the 33rd minute when Tchamadeu converted their first clear opportunity to give his side the lead.
The goal lifted Cameroon, who returned from the interval with renewed purpose. Just two minutes into the second half, they doubled their advantage as Kofane rose to nod home a composed diving header in the 47th minute, dealing a major blow to South Africa’s momentum.
South Africa pressed relentlessly in search of a response and finally found a breakthrough late on, with Makgopa pulling one back in the 87th minute to set up a nervy finish. Cameroon, though, stood firm, with Epassy again central to their resistance as they saw out the closing stages.
Despite being outplayed for long periods, Cameroon’s resilience, efficiency, and tactical discipline proved decisive as they advanced to the last eight.
The Indomitable Lions will next face the hosts, Morocco, on Friday at the Stade Moulay Abdellah in Rabat.
