Ronwen Williams: Mamelodi Sundowns Star Confirms Bafana Bafana's Target at AFCON 2025

• Ronwen Williams has shared Bafana Bafana's target at the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco ahead of their opening game against Angola
• The Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper was part of the South African squad that finished third at the last edition of the competition in 2024
• The former SuperSport United star was named the best goalkeeper in last year's edition in Ivory Coast, and would be looking forward to winning the award once again

Mamelodi Sundowns skipper Ronwen Williams has made it clear what Bafana Bafana are targeting at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, as they aim to surpass their achievement from the previous edition of the competition last year.

Hugo Broos' side claimed the bronze medal at the last AFCON in Ivory Coast after beating the Democratic Republic of Congo in the third place play off, a tournament in which Williams’ performances earned him the Goalkeeper of the Tournament accolade and also showcased him worldwide.

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Since that campaign, Bafana Bafana has continued its upward trajectory under the tutelage of Broos, remaining unbeaten while securing qualification for both the Morocco-hosted AFCON and the forthcoming FIFA World Cup, which would be held in the United States of America, Mexico and Canada.

Williams shares Bafana's AFCON 2025 target

South Africa are placed in Group B and would begin their campaign with an evening fixture against Angola on Monday, December 22, 2025, before taking on seven-time AFCON champions Egypt on Boxing Day, and rounding off the group stage against bitter rivals Zimbabwe on Monday, December 29, 2025.

At a pre-match press conference on Sunday, Bafana Bafana captain Williams reflected on the team’s recent progress, noting that Bafana Bafana have enjoyed a strong period marked by an extended unbeaten run stretching back to the last AFCON.

He acknowledged that while their current form has been encouraging, success at the tournament depends on numerous variables, stressing that AFCON is notoriously difficult to win. Despite the challenge, he maintained that the squad believes it is capable of surpassing its previous achievement.

According to the Sundowns goalkeeper, the team possesses both the talent and depth required, but must translate that potential into performances on the pitch and demonstrate the strides made together as a unit.

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The South African international added that traditional heavyweights and, in particular, the host nation are usually viewed as favourites, yet he insisted that Bafana Bafana remain confident in their ability to compete for the title.

He explained that the primary aim is to improve on the last tournament as a clear sign of progress, conceding that lifting the trophy is the ultimate ambition but also recognising that fine margins and a measure of fortune often play a decisive role.

Emphasising mentality, he said the team is determined to represent itself well by fighting for every result and maintaining the unity and resilience that have underpinned their recent rise.

Williams concluded by stating that Bafana Bafana will approach the competition one match at a time, giving maximum effort throughout, while hoping that circumstances ultimately fall in South Africa’s favour in the pursuit of AFCON glory.

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