Khune Concerned Over Bafana Captain Ronwen Williams: “He Was Not Switched On”
- Ronwen Williams helped Bafana Bafana to another emphatic victory, but his performance contained moments that caught the attention of a former national-team captain
- The 5-0 scoreline against Eritrea told only part of the story, with the Bafana captain facing questions over his early display in Cairo
- Itumeleng Khune has now weighed in on Williams’ performance, pointing to a particular issue that could become important ahead of the Egypt clash
PAY ATTENTION: Mark Briefly News as a preferred source, and our content will appear higher in your Google feed!
Source: Getty Images
Former Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune has raised concerns about Ronwen Williams after the Mamelodi Sundowns captain made several mistakes during South Africa’s 5-0 win over Eritrea in Cairo on Wednesday, 30 September 2026.
Despite the commanding scoreline, Williams looked unsettled early on, prompting Khune to question whether the goalkeeper had been fully focused.
Speaking to SABC, Khune said Williams' performance gave him reason to worry.
“Yeah, it was a nervy start for Ronwen; even in the second half, I was a bit worried,” Khune said.
PAY ATTENTION: You can now search for all your favourite news and topics on Briefly News.
The former Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper then suggested Williams had become too confident against Eritrea.
“I think sometimes he’s overconfident, and that’s when he makes mistakes,” Khune added, according to KickOff.
Ronwen Williams warned after Eritrea scares
South Africa eventually settled and produced a five-goal performance, but the opening exchanges were far less comfortable. Eritrea created opportunities before Bafana took control, with Relebohile Mofokeng scoring twice in the emphatic victory.
Khune singled out one moment in particular.
“Look at the other error there; he was not switched on there. Instead of tipping the ball, he gave them half a chance,” he said.
Khune also noted that Williams has competition behind him, saying,
“Sipho Chaine is waiting [on the subs bench].”
Source: Twitter
Khune backs Bafana Bafana captain to respond
Khune's comments came from a former national-team captain who understands the demands placed on the goalkeeper. He represented Bafana 91 times, while Williams currently wears the captain's armband.
The criticism was accompanied by recognition of Williams' ability to recover. Bafana kept a clean sheet and followed their 2-1 victory over Guinea on 26 September with another three points, giving Pitso Mosimane's side six points from their opening two AFCON qualifiers.
Bafana now turn their attention to a high-profile meeting with Egypt on Sunday, giving Williams another opportunity to respond on the international stage.
Bafana Bafana’s FIFA ranking rises after Eritrea win
Briefly News previously reported that Bafana Bafana strengthened their position in the 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign with a 5-0 victory over Eritrea in Cairo.
The result also had an impact beyond the qualifying table, with South Africa moving higher in the latest provisional FIFA rankings after another important victory under Pitso Mosimane.
PAY ATTENTION: Stay informed and follow us on Google News!
Source: Briefly News
