Ivory Coast vs Cameroon: The Clash That Could Shape Bafana Bafana’s AFCON 2025 Knockout Path

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As Bafana Bafana gear up for their decisive Group E clash against Zimbabwe, attention will also turn to Marrakesh tonight, where defending champions Ivory Coast face Cameroon in a blockbuster Group F encounter at the Stade de Marrakech (kick-off 22:00 CAT).

This match could determine South Africa’s potential Round of 16 opponent, should Hugo Broos’ men beat Zimbabwe and finish as runners-up in their group.

Why It Matters for Bafana

Both Ivory Coast and Cameroon started AFCON 2025 with narrow 1–0 wins, Ivory Coast over Mozambique and Cameroon against Gabon, leaving them level on three points and tied on goal difference. A victory for either side tonight will secure a knockout spot and likely set up a clash with the Group E runner-up, potentially Bafana Bafana.

AFCON 2024 Final in Ivory Coast Ivory Coast players celebrate with the Africa Cup of Nations trophy after winning the fi
AFCON 2024 Final in Ivory Coast Ivory Coast players celebrate with the Africa Cup of Nations trophy after winning the final soccer match between Ivory Coast and Nigeria at the Olympic Stadium of Ebimpe in Abidjan, Ivory Coast February 11, 2024. Abidjan Ivory Coast Copyright: xMatrixxImagesx/xCelestexDiomx

Form Guide

Ivory Coast enter in excellent shape, with four wins, one draw, and one defeat in their last six competitive matches, scoring 13 goals and conceding just one. A win tonight would keep their dream alive of defending the AFCON crown.

Cameroon, under newly appointed coach David Pagou, are eager to reassert themselves after missing out on World Cup qualification. Their narrow win over Gabon showed promise, and they’ll aim to sustain momentum against a tough opponent.

Head-to-Head History

This heavyweight clash is tightly contested, Ivory Coast have 10 wins, Cameroon 9, with 2 draws across 21 meetings. The Elephants have lost only once in their last five encounters since 2014, giving them a slight edge.

Players to Watch

  • Ivory Coast: Amad Diallo, who delivered the match-winning goal against Mozambique, will be key again.
  • Cameroon: Bryan Mbeumo looks to score after a quiet opener and could be a game-changer.

Where to Watch

  • South Africa & across Sub-Saharan Africa: Live coverage will be available on SuperSport and SABC+, both platforms offering full tournament streams.
  • United Kingdom: Free-to-air coverage via Channel 4’s network (Channel 4, E4, 4Seven, Channel 4 website and YouTube).
  • United States: Broadcast live on beIN Sports, including on channels like beIN Sports Xtra, with streaming via their platforms.
<!-- Author Start -->Willis Sob<!-- Author End -->

Willis Sob

Author

Willis Sob is an experienced journalist who has been in the game since 2009, covering major assignments around the continent.
His hunger for African football is unmatched, always getting the best angles and facts to feed the fans and quench their thirst.