Ronwen Williams proud Bafana captain despite watching from sidelines
“The players never give up,” says Ronwen Williams.
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Robert Marawa speaks to Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper, Ronwen Williams.
Listen below.
Ronwen Williams recently added Ballon d’Or nominee to his ever-growing list of achievements.
This puts the goalkeeper among the top 10 in the world, something he says he never thought he would hear.
ALSO READ: Bafana Bafana's Ronwen Williams nominated for Yacine Trophy at Ballon d’Or
“Being among the top 10 [goalkeepers in the world]… As humble as one is I don’t think it will ever sink in. This is just something that you only dream of.”
- Ronwen Williams, footballer
“Now I am dreaming of what suit I am going to wear, representing South Africa.”
- Ronwen Williams, footballer
Williams, currently out on injury, is supporting Bafana Bafana from the sidelines as they work their way through the African Cup of Nations qualifiers.
The home team drew against Uganda on Friday at Orlando Stadium.
While it is difficult to be away, he says it is nice to see more players being given the honour to step up.
“I don’t think I’ve missed many games with Bafana over the years… It’s very difficult [because] I prefer being the one doing the job. But it is also nice to watch, seeing others being given a chance.”
- Ronwen Williams, footballer
During their match with Uganda, Bafana Bafana had to fight from behind to claim the draw despite getting on the score board first.
“African football, you can never think it’s over. For some reason, they [the players] just never give up and that’s the lesson we’ve learned over the last few years.”
- Ronwen Williams, footballer
Williams says he shares special admiration for goalkeeper Veli Mothwa for picking himself up and continuing to give it his all despite his blunder against Uganda.
“When I used to make a mistake it would dwell… over the years it's been about more experience so you make a mistake and you let it go. You just focus on the next action… you are still in the game.”
- Ronwen Williams, footballer
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