After a solid first round that brought smiles back to fans' faces, Cameroon enters the knockout stages with a boost of confidence. However, this Sunday in Rabat, the Indomitable Lions face South Africa. Between their shared history, their status as "giant killers," and the renewed pressure, here are three reasons why Cameroon is treading on thin ice.

1. South Africa, specialists in heroic "hold-ups"

While Bafana Bafana haven't collected trophies since 1996, they excel at taking down giants. Recent history speaks for itself:

1. Egypt 2019: They eliminate the Pharaohs on their own turf, in front of a tearful crowd.
2. CAN 2024: They defeat Morocco (2-0), who were then the overwhelming favorites and semi-finalists of the World Cup.
3. 2026 World Cup Qualifiers: They recently finished ahead of Osimhen's Nigeria in their group.

The message is clear: South Africa is not afraid of the stars on the opposing jersey.

2. The Hugo Broos Factor: The Shadow of the "Belgian Wizard"

The South African bench is home to a man who knows every nook and cranny of the green house: Hugo Broos . The architect of Cameroon's surprise triumph in 2017, the Belgian coach returns to his old stomping grounds with a particular motivation.

Although he denies being vindictive after his dismissal in 2018, David Pagou, the current Cameroon coach, is under no illusions: "He knows our mentality and has proven his worth with us. He won't give us any favors." This tactical duel between the former master and the new Cameroonian guard will be one of the keys to the match.

3. The return of pressure on the Lions

Arriving in Morocco amidst a crisis (last-minute coaching change, key players sidelined), Cameroon played without pressure, almost as underdogs. But their stellar performance against Ivory Coast in the group stage changed everything.

1. The boomerang effect: By winning again, the Lions have regained their status as favorites.
2. The mental trap: Managing the expectations of a once again demanding public is a challenge for the young guard led by Carlos Baleba.

"We try to stay in our shell to keep the pressure off," says David Pagou.

The date: Sunday evening (7pm UTC), at the Al Barid stadium in Rabat, Cameroon will have to prove that its confidence is stronger than the traps set by the South Africans who have absolutely nothing to lose.