EC Government Toasts Bafana Bafana’s Ronwen Williams’ Sensational CAF Awards Success

EC Government Toasts Bafana Bafana’s Ronwen Williams’ Sensational CAF Awards Success

  • Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane has congratulated Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Ronwen Williams on his CAF success
  • Williams clinched two CAF awards to cap a brilliant year on the international stage after his previous Ballon d'Or nomination
  • Mabuyane spoke highly of the national team captain's on-field achievements and called for ongoing support for local athletes
Bafana goalie and 2024 Ballon d'Or nominee Ronwen Williams bags CAF Awards success
Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Ronwen Williams received flowers for his exceptional 2024 exploits from the Eastern Cape government. Images: @RonwenClub, @OscarMagud
Source: Twitter

BISHO — The Eastern Cape government has handed Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Ronwen Williams his flowers after scooping two continental accolades.

Premier Oscar Mabuyane congratulated the shot-stopper on recently scooping top Confederation of African Football (CAF) prizes to cap a sensational year.

Williams applauded after CAF success

Williams, ranked the world's ninth-best keeper for the Yashin Trophy at the Ballon d'Or awards in October, won the CAF Interclub Player of the Year and African Goalkeeper of the Year titles.

The 2024 CAF Awards ceremony, held on Monday, 16 December, in Marrakesh, Morocco, honoured the best African soccer talent.

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Mabuyane waxed lyrical about the Eastern Cape-born Williams' achievements, including becoming the first SA player to score a Ballon d'Or nomination.

He said the recognition demonstrated his exceptional performances, brought immense pride to the Eastern Cape, and exemplified him as a role model for young African athletes.

"His achievements inspire many youth to chase their dreams and strive for excellence. His exceptional talent, dedication, and passion for the beautiful game have earned him the well-deserved recognition," said Mabuyane.

The politician acknowledged the player's impact at Betway Premiership outfit Mamelodi Sundowns, spilling over into his role as the national team captain.

He called for ongoing support for local athletes who were the nation's pride.

"Ronwen has consistently demonstrated his skills and leadership, making South Africa proud on the international stage," he said.
"What he has achieved at this level reflects the growing impact of local talent in global sports. We're committed to nurturing and supporting our athletes to make their mark on the world," added Mabuyane.

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Sundowns tempted to sell star player?

In related news, Briefly News reported that new Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso could use the sale of a star player to introduce new faces.

The PSL champions reportedly received a R55 million offer from Scottish giants Glasgow Rangers for in-form striker Iqraam Rayners.

Source: Briefly News

Authors:
Tshepiso Mametela avatar

Tshepiso Mametela (Head of Current Affairs Desk) Tshepiso Mametela is a seasoned journalist with eight years of experience writing for online and print publications. He is the current affairs Head of Desk at Briefly News. He was a news reporter for The Herald, a senior sports contributor at Opera News SA, and a reporter for Caxton Local Media’s Bedfordview and Edenvale News and Joburg East Express community titles. He has attended media workshops, including the crime and court reporting one by the Wits Justice Project and Wits Centre for Journalism in 2024. Email: tshepiso.mametela@briefly.co.za