Cameroon Advances to AFCON Quarterfinals with 2-1 Victory Over South Africa. Rabat, Morocco — Goals from Junior Tchamadeu and Christian Kofane secured Cameroon’s passage to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarterfinals with a 2-1 win over South Africa at the Al Medina Stadium in Rabat on Sunday.
The victory sees the Indomitable Lions face hosts Morocco in a high — stakes quarterfinal match on Friday.
Tchamadeu opened the scoring in the 34th minute, converting a deflected shot into the back of the net. Kofane doubled Cameroon’s advantage two minutes into the second half with a well-taken header.
South Africa’s Evidence Makgopa scored a late consolation goal, but it was not enough to prevent Cameroon from advancing.
Cameroon’s success comes after a tumultuous build-up to the tournament, marked by the sacking of coach Marc Brys and his replacement by David Pagou.
The new coach’s tactical adjustments seemed to pay off against South Africa’s Hugo Broos, who had led the team to their last continental title in 2017. South Africa had their chances, with Relebohile Mofokeng missing a golden opportunity in the opening minutes.
Cameroon’s defense held firm, with goalkeeper Devis Epassy making crucial saves to keep the scoreline at 1-0 until Kofane’s second goal.
Morocco also secured their place in the quarterfinals with a 1-0 victory over Tanzania earlier on Sunday, thanks to a Brahim Diaz strike.
The hosts will now face Cameroon in a match that could see the Indomitable Lions aiming to reach the semifinals for the first time since 2019.
The quarterfinals mark a critical stage of the AFCON, where the last 16 teams are winnowed down to the final eight. For Cameroon, reaching this stage is already considered a success, especially considering the team’s recent turmoil.
Sources: According to local reports, Cameroon’s victory was a significant upset against South Africa, who were expected to advance.
The match was closely contested, with both teams creating scoring opportunities. Further details are expected as the tournament progresses.
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Source: aljazeera.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 2*
