South Africa’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign came to an end after a 2–1 defeat to Cameroon in a tense last-16 clash played in Rabat.
Bafana Bafana started brightly and dominated large spells of the first half, creating several chances but failing to turn possession into goals. That lack of clinical finishing would come back to haunt them.
Cameroon weathered the early pressure and struck just before half-time. A corner from the right caused confusion in the South African defence, allowing Jean-Charles Castelletto Tchamadeu to slot home after a VAR check confirmed the goal stood.
South Africa continued to press after the break, but Cameroon doubled their lead in the second half when Mahamadou Nagida delivered a cross that Kofane headed into the far post. The goal stunned South Africa, who had looked the more composed side for long periods.
With time running out, Bafana Bafana finally found a breakthrough. Substitute Tshepang Moremi combined well down the left before delivering a measured cross that Evidence Makgopa guided past goalkeeper Devis Epassy to make it 2–1.
The goal set up a dramatic finish. South Africa pushed forward relentlessly as Cameroon appeared to slow the game down, with Epassy eventually being booked for time-wasting. A late corner and free kick offered brief hope, but Cameroon held firm through five minutes of stoppage time.
Despite the defeat, South Africa can take encouragement from a performance that showed composure, intensity and attacking intent, even if the final result fell short.
Cameroon advance to the quarter-finals, while South Africa exit the tournament having shown promise but lacking the cutting edge needed at the highest level.
