Cameroon will be aiming to break a long-standing jinx against South Africa when the two sides meet tonight in the Round of 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, currently taking place in Morocco and running until January 18.
South Africa secured their place in the knockout phase after finishing second in Group B behind Egypt, collecting six points from three matches.
Cameroon, meanwhile, advanced as runners-up in Group F with seven points, level with Ivory Coast, but edged out on goal difference despite being the defending champions.
The matchup carries added psychological weight for Cameroon, as South Africa have enjoyed clear dominance in recent encounters.
The Indomitable Lions have failed to beat Bafana Bafana in their last seven meetings, recording five draws and two defeats.
Cameroon’s most recent victory over South Africa dates back to 1992, a 2–1 win in a friendly match.
Their only previous Africa Cup of Nations meeting came in the 1996 edition, where South Africa claimed a convincing 3–0 victory on their way to lifting the trophy, further cementing their reputation as a difficult opponent for Cameroon.
The importance of the clash is heightened by the reward awaiting the winner, who will advance to the quarterfinals to face either Morocco or Tanzania.
As a result, both teams are expected to approach the game with heightened focus and tactical discipline.
Follow the latest news on Google News
