South Africa withstood a significant offensive from Cameroon, securing a goalless draw in their CAF Under-17 Championship Group B match at Stade Larbi Zaouli on Thursday.

While they endured intense pressure in the first half, South Africa displayed improved performance in the second, with Teboho Mlangeni narrowly missing a scoring opportunity after rounding the Junior Lopez goalkeeper.

The draw places South Africa at the top of Group B with four points from two matches, while Cameroon earned their first point in the group stage.

South Africa entered the match following a spirited 4-3 victory over Egypt in their opening Group B encounter on Monday, where Emile Witbooi delivered a standout performance for Amajimbos.

Cameroon, on the other hand, came into the game after a 2-1 loss to Burkina Faso in their opening group stage match.

The early stages of the game reflected Cameroon’s urgency, as they launched relentless attacks, placing Amajimbos under considerable pressure.

Cameroon came close to scoring when Andre Emini’s left-footed strike struck the upright, beating goalkeeper Lwandiso Radebe.

Cameroon continued to test the South African defense, who opted to sit deep and absorb the pressure.

However, Njabulo Mzimela missed a golden opportunity for South Africa with a close-range header that went wide.

Vela Khumalo’s side was fortunate to reach halftime with a scoreless draw, having been subjected to sustained pressure from the physically imposing Cameroonian team.

Amajimbos showed improvement in the second half, adopting a more attacking approach, suggesting a motivational halftime talk from coach Khumalo.

As South Africa grew in confidence, they created several attacking opportunities, often initiated by Witbooi. However, Cameroon’s physical presence proved effective in thwarting South Africa’s advances.

Despite being physically challenged by Cameroon, South Africa displayed technical proficiency in navigating tight spaces to escape pressure.

South Africa nearly scored in the 86th minute when Witbooi set up Mlangeni, who rounded Cameroon goalkeeper Lopez but scuffed his shot, allowing Cameroon to clear the danger.

South Africa will conclude their group stage campaign against Burkina Faso at the same venue in Casablanca, while Egypt will face Cameroon. Both matches will be played simultaneously on Sunday.