4 January 2026 at 19:00
Match Summary
Cameroon defeated South Africa 2:1. The match was played in Africa Cup of Nations 2025. Goals were scored by J. Tchamadeu 34′, C. Kofane 47′, E. Makgopa 88′. 7 yellow cards were shown. South Africa had 66% possession while Cameroon held 34%. South Africa had 18 shots (4 on target) compared to 10 (4 on target) for Cameroon. South Africa made 4 substitutions, Cameroon made 5.
Match Events
Key match events between South Africa and Cameroon — 3 goals and 7 cards recorded during the match.
assist: S. Kotto
assist: M. Nagida
assist: A. Modiba
Match Statistics
South Africa had 66% possession against Cameroon's 34%. South Africa registered 18 shots (4 on target) while Cameroon managed 10 (4 on target). Corner kicks: 6–3. Fouls committed: 14–13.
Lineups
South Africa lined up in a 3-4-2-1 formation, while Cameroon deployed a —.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for South Africa is 6.82, compared to 6.77 for Cameroon. This metric is derived from each player's average match rating across all league appearances this season — anything above 7.00 is considered strong, while below 6.50 signals inconsistency. South Africa's highest-rated starter is R. Williams (7.25), while Cameroon's best-rated player is S. Kotto (7.10).
Attacking Output
The starting XI of South Africa have contributed 4 goals and 2 assists this season, led by O. Appollis (2G). Cameroon's starters account for 3 goals and 2 assists, spearheaded by C. Kofane (2G). Goals reflect clinical finishing and chance creation, while assists highlight the ability to unlock defences through through-balls, crosses, and set pieces.
Defensive Solidity
South Africa deploy 3 defenders rated 6.69 on average, against Cameroon's 3-man backline averaging 6.86. Higher defensive ratings suggest better positional awareness, fewer individual errors, and a greater likelihood of keeping clean sheets. The rating accounts for tackles won, interceptions, aerial duels, and blocks throughout the season.
Midfield Control
South Africa field 4 midfielders averaging 6.67, versus Cameroon's 5 rated 6.68. Midfield ratings reflect passing accuracy, interceptions, key passes, and overall control of possession — the team that dominates midfield typically dictates the tempo and territory of the match.
Forward Threat
South Africa start 3 forward(s) averaging 6.99, compared to 2 for Cameroon averaging 6.79. Forward ratings capture shot accuracy, movement off the ball, dribbling success, and involvement in build-up play — they indicate who carries the greater goal threat on the day.
Passing & Build-Up
Passing accuracy averages 59% for South Africa and 45% for Cameroon. Higher passing accuracy generally indicates a possession-based style with patient build-up through the thirds, while lower figures may suggest a more direct, counter-attacking approach with long balls and quick transitions.
Discipline
South Africa's starters have collected 7 yellow cards this season, compared to 8 for Cameroon. Yellow cards reflect how aggressively a team presses and tackles — a high count may indicate a physical, high-pressing style but also risks suspensions and late free-kicks in dangerous areas.
Age & Experience
The average age of South Africa's starting XI is 26.4 (youngest: M. Mbokazi (20), oldest: R. Williams (33)), while Cameroon average 24.3 (youngest: C. Kofane (19), oldest: D. Epassy (32)). Younger squads typically offer pace, energy, and pressing intensity, while experienced lineups bring composure, game management, and the ability to handle high-pressure moments.
Squad Depth
South Africa's starters average 3 league appearances each, versus 4 for Cameroon. High appearance counts indicate an established, well-drilled unit that the manager trusts week in and week out. Lower figures may suggest rotation, injuries, or emerging players still earning their place in the team.
Substitutes
Coach: Molefi Petrus Ntseki
Substitutes
Recent Form
In their last 6 matches, South Africa have recorded 4 wins, 0 draws and 2 defeats. Cameroon show 3 wins, 2 draws and 1 losses from their last 6 outings.
South Africa
Cameroon
API data: 15 Mar 2026