Williams backed to lead Bafana at AFCON with strong support

BAFANA Bafana’s leadership and goalkeeping departments are in safe hands with Ronwen Williams, but the national team captain cannot do it alone.

- MIHLALI BALEKA

He needs support both on and off the pitch.Williams has been South Africa's standout performer in recent years. His displays between the sticks helped Bafana secure a third-place finish - their first in more than two decades - at the last Africa Cup of Nations, as well as recent qualification for the 2026 Fifa World Cup.

As captain, he has fostered a fighting spirit within the squad and ensured camaraderie among the players, who are not divided by club allegiances.

Heading into the AFCON finals in Morocco this month - where Bafana are drawn in Group B alongside Angola, Egypt, and Zimbabwe - Williams’ character and leadership will be tested.

AFCON-winning goalkeeper Andre Arendse, speaking during the team’s sendoff party at FNB Stadium last week, backed Williams to continue thriving in both roles.