BAFANA BRACE FOR CAMEROON TEST

South Africa’s AFCON 2025 journey is set to hit a defining moment as Bafana Bafana prepare to take on five-time champions Cameroon in a heavyweight Round of 16 clash.

Anticipation is building for a knockout encounter that promises drama, history and high stakes on Moroccan soil.

Bafana arrive at this stage having done enough in the group phase to keep their tournament alive. There’s been grit, patience and flashes of attacking quality, even if the performances haven’t always been perfect. Still, they’ve shown they can manage games, and that resilience could prove vital against one of Africa’s traditional heavyweights.

Cameroon, though, need no introduction. The Indomitable Lions carry a reputation forged over decades, with five AFCON titles and a habit of peaking when knockout football begins.

While their group-stage form may not have been flawless, they’ve once again found a way through and that’s often when Cameroon become most dangerous.

There’s an added layer of intrigue on the South African bench. Head coach Hugo Broos knows Cameroon better than most, having led them to AFCON glory in 2017.

He’ll be eager to prove that his current side can outthink and outfight his former team when it matters most.

History suggests this contest won’t be one-sided. South Africa has enjoyed success against Cameroon in past AFCON meetings, and belief within the camp remains strong.

Still, knockout football doesn’t allow for second chances, and any lapse in concentration could be costly.

Image credit: Daily Maverick