Cameroon stormed into the Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinals after eliminating South Africa with a 2-1 win in their round-of-16 clash on Sunday at Agdal Medina Stadium in Rabat.
Junior Tchamadeu and Christian Kofane were on target for the Indomitable Lions, while Evidence Makgopa’s late strike proved only a consolation for Bafana Bafana.
Tchamadeu opened the scoring after finding space on the left side of the box, finishing calmly after a long-range effort was deflected into his path.
Cameroon doubled their advantage just two minutes into the second half when Kofane headed past Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, connecting with a well-delivered cross from Mahamadou Nagidw.
South Africa continued to push forward and were rewarded in the 87th minute when substitute Makgopa tapped in from close range following a neat low cross from Aubrey Modiba. However, it proved too little, too late as Cameroon held on to see out the match.
Bafana Bafana will rue missed opportunities. Lyle Foster headed over from a well-delivered free kick, while Relebohile Mofokeng fired over and wide after being picked out at the edge of the box.
Teboho Mokoena also came close from a free kick, but his effort toward the bottom right corner was well saved by Cameroon goalkeeper Devis Epassy.
The final whistle was met with wild celebrations as Cameroon players and officials rejoiced, with Cameroon Football Association (FECAFOOT) president Samuel Eto’o seen punching the air in relief.
Cameroon now progress to the quarterfinals, where they will face hosts Morocco, who eliminated Tanzania.