Why Bafana’s hardest AFCON route could be their greatest advantage

IF Bafana Bafana are to finally rid themselves of their 30-year-old trophy drought, then this Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) route — brutal, unforgiving and stacked with pedigree — may be exactly what they need.

- SMISO MSOMI

CAF AFRICA CUP OF NATIONS MOROCCO 25

South Africa’s reward for navigating the group phase is a round-of-16 meeting with seven-time champions Cameroon tonight.

It is the kind of opponent that once would have inspired dread. Now, it should inspire belief.

Beyond the Indomitable Lions, the path only stiffens. Hosts and favourites Morocco could await in the quarterfinals, while Nigeria — finalists at the last AFCON — or a resurgent Algeria loom later.

On paper, it is the hardest possible road. In reality, it might be the most honest one Bafana could ask for.

This team has quietly built its identity in the company of giants.

Over the last two to three years, Bafana have walked into hostile territories and walked out unscathed. Ivory Coast in Abidjan.