Baleba: Bring on Morocco as Cameroon charge into AFCON 2025 quarter-finals

Carlos Baleba, named Man of the Match, set the tone for Cameroon’s ambitions after their hard-fought 2–1 victory over South Africa in Rabat.

The Indomitable Lions were battered for half an hour by a dominant Bafana Bafana side but held firm before striking with ruthless precision.

South Africa dictated the tempo early on with high pressing and vertical play, forcing goalkeeper Epassy into action and creating several clear chances.

Yet Cameroon bent without breaking, surviving thanks to defensive resilience and South Africa’s wastefulness.

The turning point arrived in the 33rd minute when J. Tchamadeu fired home with his first real opportunity, stunning the opposition and shifting momentum. Just minutes later, C. Kofane doubled the lead with a composed diving header in the 37th minute, punishing South Africa’s lapse in concentration.

Though shaken, Bafana Bafana refused to surrender. E. Makgopa reignited hope with an 87th-minute strike, setting up a tense finale. Cameroon were forced into deep defending, but Epassy stood tall, repelling late pressure to secure qualification.

The Cameroonians wi now face hosts, Morocco in the quarterfinals on Friday and Baleba says the Indomitable Lions are ready to roar again.

‘Yes, we are going to face Morocco, which is a strong side in African football. We are on a good run, and it’s up to us to keep a cool head and continue like this. Our mindset is very positive; we play for each other, and that is what makes our team strong,’ he said, looking ahead to Friday’s quarter-final clash at the Stade Moulay Abdellah.