A mouthwatering showdown awaits in the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 knockout stage as South Africa’s Bafana Bafana take on five-time champions Cameroon at Al Medina Stadium (also known as Al Barid Stadium) on Saturday, January 4.
The match, kicking off at 20:00 local time (19:00 GMT / 21:00 SAST / 22:00 CAT), promises high drama, especially with South Africa coach Hugo Broos facing the nation he guided to continental glory in 2017. Broos has vowed “no mercy” against his former side, declaring: “I am the coach of South Africa now and I want to win the game.”
South Africa advanced as Group B runners-up with six points, securing dramatic victories over Angola (2-1) and Zimbabwe (3-2, thanks to Oswin Appollis’ late penalty) but falling 0-1 to Egypt. Burnley striker Lyle Foster and rising star Appollis have spearheaded the attack, providing the flair and finishing that could trouble Cameroon’s defence.
Cameroon, runners-up in Group F with seven points, remained unbeaten through the group stage. They edged Gabon 1-0, defeated Mozambique 2-1, and drew 1-1 with holders Ivory Coast. Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo has emerged as their key threat, showcasing the resilience that has defined the Indomitable Lions’ campaign.
Historically, South Africa hold the edge in competitive encounters, remaining unbeaten against Cameroon since 1992 (W3 D5 L1 overall). Their only previous AFCON meeting came in the 1996 group stage, where Bafana recorded a resounding 3-0 win en route to lifting their sole title.
The winner of this tense tactical battle will advance to the quarter-finals to face either hosts Morocco or Tanzania. Experts anticipate a low-scoring affair, potentially extending to extra time or penalties.
Fans in South Africa can catch the action live on SABC and SuperSport, with international broadcasters also covering the TotalEnergies AFCON 2025.