Ronwen Williams Explains What Bafana Bafana Lacked at Last Year’s Africa Cup of Nations

• Ronwen Williams has shared what South Africa didn't have at the last Africa Cup of Nations, which was hosted by Ivory Coast
• The Bafana Bafana captain also opened up on his thoughts on the progress the team have achieved ahead of the tournament
• The Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper's thoughts sparked different reactions from South Africans on social media

Mamelodi Sundowns captain Ronwen Williams has opened up on what Bafana Bafana lacked in the last edition of the Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast compared to this year's competition in Morocco.

The Brazilians' goalkeeper captained Bafana Bafana to a third-place finish at the previous edition and is looking forward to bettering that performance this year.

The former SuperSport United shot-stopper was the star man for Bafana Bafana in Ivory Coast, winning the Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament and went on to be nominated for a Ballon d'Or award.

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Ahead of the tournament, South Africa defeated Ghana 1-0 in one of their warm-up games, courtesy of a second-half wondrous strike from Orlando Pirates midfielder Sipho Mbule.

Williams: What Bafana lacked at last AFCON

Williams expressed satisfaction with the team’s current progress but acknowledged that the upcoming AFCON would be a real test. He told SABC Sport that the team has been in a good space and has performed extremely well. He emphasised the importance of continued support and well-wishing, noting that positive backing is crucial as they move forward.

Williams said the team wants to leave past issues behind, approach the tournament with a clear mind, and give their all. He also highlighted that, unlike the previous tournament, the team now enjoys strong national support, which he believes will motivate them to progress further.

Bafana Bafana will kick-start their campaign in Morocco against Angola on Monday, December 22, 2025, and Williams's comments sparked mixed reactions from fans on social media.

Ultimate_Bucs said:

"Nope, Lamthuthu wants you to stay in the group stages!"

Droffilc Ostesiit wrote:

"If Bafana Bafana wins the AFCON, we celebrate as a country; if they lose, we cook 😂❤️✌️"

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Lumz De Baba shared:

"If we were going to play in Mzansi, that statement would be tested. Madala divided the nation, knowing he won't need our support again, as the WC is right after AFCON, then he hits retirement, akasacengi. He destroyed what he's built."

sitholesabel75 reacted:

"Never, a whole fan base wanted y'all back home. They're supporting Angola."

KingVon_94 commented:

"If only you, my Captain that some of Lamthuthus are not rallying behind you. They want you to fail so they can celebrate."

Nqubeko Minenhle Mazibuko added:

"It lacked a goalkeeper who can fist the balls during set pieces, not a goalkeeper with sagging shorts."

Williams reacts to 2026 World Cup draw

Briefly News earlier reported that Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper Ronwen Williams shared his thoughts on Bafana Bafana's group at the 2026 World Cup.

The Bafana Bafana captain also talked about their chances of qualifying from their group in the competition.

Source: Briefly News