AFCON 2025: Why Cameroon vs Ivory Coast matters the most for Bafana Bafana?

With Egypt already securing their place in the round of 16, Group B of the Africa Cup of Nations remains open, but Bafana Bafana are favourites to finish second behind the Pharaohs.

South Africa who lost 1-0 to Egypt in their second match, have one final group clash against a winless Zimbabwe which will be decisive. A victory would confirm Hugo Broos’ men as Group B runners-up, setting up a last-16 showdown against the second-placed team from Group F. That opponent is likely to be either Cameroon or Ivory Coast, with both sides locked on three points apiece ahead of their crucial encounter on Sunday.

The potential clash carries added intrigue: Cameroon is Broos’ former team, having guided the Indomitable Lions to AFCON glory in 2017. Whether it’s Cameroon or Ivory Coast, Bafana Bafana will be bracing for a heavyweight test in the knockout stages.

Meanwhile, Egypt’s next fixture against Angola remains vital. A win would secure top spot in Group B, ensuring Hossam Hassan’s charges avoid the tournament’s big guns early on. As group winners, Egypt would face one of the best third-placed teams from Groups A, C, or D – likely Zambia, Tanzania, or Benin.

The permutations underline the drama: Egypt chasing top spot, Bafana Bafana eyeing progression, and the looming possibility of a Broos reunion with his former team.

South Africa’s Position in Group B

• Bafana Bafana lost 1-0 to Egypt in their second match but remain favourites to finish second in Group B.
• Their final clash against Zimbabwe will be decisive. Victory would secure Hugo Broos’ men a spot in the round of 16 as runners-up.
• That position sets up a meeting with the Group F runners-up (B v 2F) — which will be either Cameroon or Ivory Coast.

Why Cameroon vs Ivory Coast Is Crucial

• Direct impact: The outcome of this fixture determines who South Africa will face in the last 16.
• Both teams tied: Cameroon and Ivory Coast are locked on three points apiece, making Sunday’s encounter a winner-takes-all battle for second place.
• High stakes: For Bafana Bafana, this means preparing for either the reigning champions (Ivory Coast) or a traditional powerhouse (Cameroon).