Relebohile Mofokeng of South Africa challenges Junior Baptiste Tchamadeu of Cameroon during 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Last 16 match in Rabat. What was meant to be a defining year for South African football has instead begun with doubt, as Bafana Bafana’s last-16 exit at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) raised uncomfortable questions about their readiness for the challenges still to come. South Africa were knocked out of the tournament with a 2–1 defeat to Cameroon, their second loss of the campaign and one that proved decisive.
The result ended Bafana’s AFCON journey prematurely and saw them fail to build on the momentum of their impressive third-place finish at the previous edition. Perhaps more worrying than the result itself was the contrast between the side that impressed during the Fifa World Cup qualifiers and the one that took to the field at this tournament. While Bafana showed flashes of quality during the group stages, they lacked the sharpness and authority required at the highest level, falling short in moments that demanded composure and ruthlessness in a competition meant to underline their status among Africa’s elite.
With time now available to reflect before attention turns firmly to the upcoming World Cup campaign, this AFCON outing leaves several key issues that demand scrutiny. Here, we unpack three major talking points following their elimination. There was an expectation that Bafana would show clear progression from one tournament to the next, especially after a largely positive 2025 that raised belief around the squad.
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Instead, that growth failed to materialise. Conceding six goals in four matches highlighted defensive frailties, while a lack of control and conviction was evident across all departments.
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