South Africa’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations journey concluded in the Round
of 16 after a 2-1 defeat to Cameroon. Despite dominating possession, Bafana
Bafana were undone by missed opportunities and defensive errors, while the
Indomitable Lions advanced with more decisive finishing.
The match was preceded by sharp criticism from former Egypt star Mohamed
Aboutrika, who openly rooted for South Africa’s elimination. He attributed
his stance to the “arrogant and provocative” comments of South African coach
Hugo Broos.
Aboutrika specifically took issue with Broos’ public complaints about
tournament organization in Morocco. “Everyone praised the stadiums, but he
was the only one who criticised them,” he said. The pundit also questioned
Broos’ tactical approach, stating, “The style he wants to play is above the
level of his players. You are not Spain.”
Contrasting the two teams’ paths, Aboutrika suggested Cameroon—with their
“great legacy in Africa”—were battle-hardened after a tough group stage,
while South Africa had faced only one major test against Egypt.
Broos had previously voiced dissatisfaction with the tournament atmosphere,
noting a lack of the typical “AFCON vibe” and criticizing logistical chaos,
including ticketing issues that blocked fans from entering the stadium.
Ultimately, Cameroon’s clinical performance validated Aboutrika’s preview,
sending Bafana Bafana home and extending their own continental legacy into
the quarter-finals.
