The Egyptians were thrashed 5-0 at the Stade Municipal de Limbe in Limbes, securing South Africa’s place as runners-up while Cameroon, who topped the group, made it three wins from three with a 2-0 win over Zimbabwe.

Egypt started the day in second place in group A, two points ahead of South Africa who knew that only a win would be enough to see them through to the last four and they duly delivered.

Prior to today, the South Africans had failed to score so far in the competition but Andisiwe Mgcoyi broke that unwanted spell as she put her side ahead with a rather fortunate and untidy finish.

Goals followed early in the second period from Nothhando Vilakazi and Refiloe Jane before Jermaine Seoposenwe scored a delightful, powerfully driven fourth.

Linda Mothalo then completed the rout with a sublime individual effort, weaving past defenders before a sumptuous finish completed what was a display of class and ruthlessness.

In the other match today, Cameroon had already secured their place in the next round but cemented their unbeaten record courtesy of two goals from from Michelle Henriette Akaba at the Stade Ahmadou Ahidjo in Yaoundé.

Tomorrow is due to see the group stages of the competition come to a close as the final round of fixtures in group B take centre stage.

Three teams are all still in with a chance of progressing with Nigeria and Ghana tied at the top of the group on four points while Mali sit in third on three points.

Nigeria take on Kenya, who have failed to win either of the first two matches, at the Stade Municipal de Limbe while Mali face Ghana in what promises to be a thrilling encounter in the Cameroonian capital of Yaoundé.

The semi-finals are then due to take place next Tuesday (November 29).