Cameroon set up AFCON quarter-final clash with Morocco
Cameroon booked their place in the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals with a 2-1 win over South Africa, ending a seven-match winless run against Bafana Bafana and securing a meeting with hosts Morocco.
The Indomitable Lions struck through Junior Tchamadeu and Christian Kofane, while Evidence Makgopa’s late goal gave South Africa hope. Earlier in the day, Morocco edged Tanzania 1-0 thanks to Brahim Díaz, setting up a high-stakes showdown between two continental heavyweights.
For Cameroon, this was a vital breakthrough. Their last AFCON campaign ended in disappointment, and momentum has been hard to find. Victory here not only carried them into the last eight but also restored belief in Rigobert Song’s side. Morocco, meanwhile, continue their pursuit of a first continental crown in 50 years, buoyed by home support and a disciplined defensive display.
The atmosphere in Rabat was tense as Cameroon struggled to impose themselves early. South Africa pressed high, forcing errors, but Cameroon’s patience paid off. Tchamadeu’s composed finish after a deflected corner gave them the lead, sparking celebrations among the travelling fans.
Key incidents defined the contest. Devis Epassy produced a string of crucial saves, including a point-blank stop from Samukele Kabini and a fingertip denial of Teboho Mokoena’s free kick. His interventions kept Cameroon in control despite South Africa’s late surge.
The goals came at decisive moments. Tchamadeu’s opener in the 34th minute settled nerves, while Kofane’s header just after half-time doubled the advantage. Makgopa’s close-range strike in the 88th minute set up a tense finale, but Cameroon held firm through stoppage time.
In Morocco, the match flow was different. The Atlas Lions dominated possession but were frustrated by Tanzania’s organisation. Saibari’s early header was ruled offside, and chances were scarce until Díaz broke the deadlock with a low shot at the near post in the 64th minute.
The second half narrative saw Morocco raise the tempo, with Ezzalzouli denied by Masalanga and Tanzania missing a golden chance through Salum. Once Díaz scored, Morocco managed the closing stages with composure, easing the pressure on a restless home crowd.
Late drama belonged to South Africa’s fightback, but Cameroon’s resilience ensured progression. Morocco’s breakthrough came just in time to calm nerves, highlighting the fine margins of knockout football.
Closing the round, Cameroon and Morocco now face off in Friday’s quarter-final. The hosts chase history, while the Indomitable Lions carry momentum from another hard-fought success. It promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the tournament, with a place in the semi-finals at stake.