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Cameroon won 2-1 South Africa reserve their CAN place in the quarter-finals, with late drama from Evidence Makgopa ensuring a tense end to the match.
The early stages were cautious, with both teams adapting to the pace and physicality of the match. Cameroon broke the deadlock in the 34th minute when Junior Tchamadeu took advantage of a corner delivered by Samuel Kotto, firing a low shot.
South Africa tried to react but struggled to create clear-cut chances. Teboho Mokoena and Lyle Foster were involved in several attempts from outside the box, only for Cameroon goalkeeper Devis Epassy to block or save.
Cameroon doubled its lead shortly after the restart. In the 47th minute, Christian Kofane rose to respond to a cross from Aboubakar Nagida, heading the ball into the bottom right corner to make it 2-0.
South Africa then increased their attacking intent, making multiple substitutions and introducing Evidence Makgopa and Aubrey Modiba to try to spark a comeback.
Despite sustained pressure, South Africa failed to break through the Cameroonian defense for much of the second half.
Lyle Foster, Khuliso Mudau and Modiba all had their attempts blocked or saved, while Cameroonian defenders and Epassy held firm against the final waves of South African attacks.
Late drama came in the 88th minute when Evidence Makgopa finally found a way, converting a low cross from Aubrey Modiba to bring South Africa back into the match at 2-1.
Despite their late surge and a flurry of attacking efforts in stoppage time, the hosts were unable to find an equalizer.
