Suffocated and stretched for long periods, Cameroon nonetheless found a way absorbing pressure, striking with precision and holding their nerve to edge South Africa 2–1 in Rabat and book a place in the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals.

For the opening half-hour, it was Bafana Bafana who set the tone. Their high press and direct running unsettled Cameroon, forcing goalkeeper Devis Epassy into action as South Africa created the clearer chances, only to be let down by a lack of cutting edge.

The turning point arrived in the 33rd minute. Against the run of play, Jean-Charles Tchamadeu made his moment count, converting Cameroon’s first real opening. One chance, one goal, and the balance of the contest shifted.

Buoyed by the breakthrough, the Indomitable Lions emerged with renewed authority after the interval. Just two minutes into the second half, Frank Magri Kofane doubled the advantage, rising to plant a composed diving header past the South African goalkeeper and leave Bafana facing an uphill task.

The lead was a harsh reflection of South Africa’s endeavour, but it was a familiar lesson in knockout football, where efficiency often outweighs dominance. Still, Hugo Broos’ side refused to fold. Evidence Makgopa pulled one back in the 87th minute, injecting late drama and briefly putting Rabat on edge.

Cameroon were tested in the closing moments, but Epassy stood firm, and his defence held their shape to the final whistle.

Dominated at times yet decisive when it mattered, Cameroon march on. The Indomitable Lions now turn their attention to a heavyweight quarter-final showdown with hosts Morocco on Friday at the Stade Moulay Abdellah in Rabat.