In a remarkable turn of events during the AFCON Quarter Finals, South Africa’s captain Ronwen Williams has captured the world’s attention with an unprecedented feat – four penalty saves against Cape Verde in a nerve-wracking penalty shootout.
This extraordinary performance has left football enthusiasts worldwide in awe, struggling to find adequate words to describe Williams’ heroics.
Before Williams’ exceptional display, no goalkeeper had managed to save a single penalty in a shootout at AFCON 2023.
However, the 32-year-old Bafana Bafana shot-stopper shattered records and expectations by denying Cape Verde’s Bebe, Willy Semedo, Laros Duarte, and Patrick Andrade in quick succession.
Williams’ brilliance extended beyond penalties as he also made a crucial late save to deflect Gilson Benchimol’s effort onto the woodwork, ensuring the match entered extra time.
The internet erupted with praise and admiration for Williams’ stellar performance, with users taking to social media to express their astonishment and gratitude.
Joseph Bertrand tweeted,
“Never in the history a keeper had saved 4 penalties in a shootout in either the World Cup, or namely AFCON, EURO, or Copa America.
“Never until… Ronwen Williams on 3 Feb 2024.”
Cassper Nyovest expressed gratitude, stating,
“Tonight, you wrote your name in the history books and in our hearts!!! Legend!! First time in 15 years!!! We are going to the CAF semi-finals because of this man!!! Ronwen Williams!!! Thank you!!”
Even official sports channels couldn’t contain their amazement. CAF Online tweeted,
“We’ve run out of adjectives to describe this guy!”
Sky Sports Football hailed Williams, saying,
“Ronwen Williams, take a bow!”
Fans poured out their appreciation for Williams’ remarkable achievement, with Toko Masemola declaring,
“Ronwen Williams. Our hero. Thank you boys. Bafana Bafana have reached their first AFCON semi-final in 24 years.”
Fana Mokoena echoed the sentiment, stating,
“Ronwen Williams carried the country yesterday. He was the president. My man! Salute!!!”
Kuria Chronicles speculated on Williams’ future, tweeting,
“Ronwen Williams to Manchester United to replace Onana. Who says no?”
Ndaedzo Nethonzhe humorously suggested,
“Ronwen Williams deserves 5 rounds, a full tank and 4 brand new tyres for Valentine’s Day please. National Treasure that one.”
Keletso expressed heartfelt admiration, naughtily stating,
“Williams……he deserves kitty tonight, I don’t care from who. Mama Joy bless this hero.”
Source iHarare
