Former Bafana Bafana captain Aaron ‘Mbazo’ Mokoena has explained why the current national team skipper Ronwen Williams, should fully embrace the monumental responsibility of leading South Africa at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The global showpiece is jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, featuring an expanded format of 48 teams.
Mokoena, who captained Bafana on home soil during the historic 2010 FIFA World Cup, understands the weight and privilege that comes with wearing the armband on football’s biggest stage.
Meanwhile, Williams has enjoyed a spectacular rise over the last couple of seasons, establishing himself not just as a domestic star, but as a household name in global football.
From his heroic penalty-saving exploits at the 2023 AFCON to leading Mamelodi Sundowns at the FIFA Club World Cup and winning the 2025/26 CAF Champions League, Williams’ leadership has been amazing.
It’s worth noting that his stellar performances even earned him a prestigious nomination for the Yashin Trophy at the Ballon d’Or awards in 2024, cementing his status among the elite goalkeepers on the planet.
‘HE HAS EARNED THAT RESPECT’: AARON MOKOENA
Speaking in the latest edition of the Sundowns Magazine, Mokoena stated that Williams has rightfully earned his place at the top and should walk out at the World Cup with his head held high.
“Ronwen should embrace the moment. There is a reason he has played at the FIFA Club World Cup [with Sundowns]. Also, why he’s been recognised among the world’s best goalkeepers. He was instrumental for Sundowns in the Champions League,” said Mokoena.
The legendary former defender, who remains South Africa’s most-capped male player, emphasised that the Sundowns shot-stopper possesses the pedigree and respect required to guide the national team.
“He has earned that respect. My advice is simple. He should enjoy the occasion. But he should remember that he’s representing his family, teammates, country and an entire continent,” Mokoena added.
“Captaining your nation at a World Cup is one of football’s greatest honours and responsibilities.”
So far, Williams started both of Bafana’s opening World Cup fixtures in Group A. The 2-0 loss to co-hosts Mexico on 11 June and the 1-1 draw with the Czech Republic on 18 June.
Bafana are set to face South Korea in a must-win encounter on Thursday, 25 June. The game will take place at the Estadio Monterrey. This showdown will kick-off at 3:00 [SA time].
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