FC Copenhagen head of women’s football Romaney Pinnock has revealed how Banyana Banyana goalkeeper Jessica Williams’ move to the Danish side materialised.
The 26-year-old shot-stopper was unveiled on Wednesday, 2 September, taking on jersey number 31 as she begins her career in Europe with the Lionesses. She joined the Danish side from the Hollywoodbets Super League club University of Cape Town [UCT].
Williams’ transfer marks a significant milestone in her career, having risen through the ranks from youth international level to full senior international recognition.
She captured widespread attention with a beautiful, long-range free-kick for Banyana in their 3–0 win over Eswatini at the 2024 COSAFA Women’s Championship.
“FC Copenhagen Women are delighted to reveal the signing of 26-year-old South African goalkeeper Jessica Williams,” reads the club’s official statement.
“Williams most recently played for the University of Cape Town in South Africa’s top division. A former South Africa U-20 international, she was part of the 2019 World Cup squad before making her breakthrough at COSAFA 2024.”
THE INSIDE STORY BEHIND JESSICA WILLIAMS’ EUROPEAN SWITCH
Speaking to the South African Football Journalists’ Association [SAFJA] on Wednesday afternoon, Copenhagen head of women’s football Pinnock lifted the lid on how the move was finalised following a trial assessment.
“We have known each other for a couple of years. The opportunity here at FC Copenhagen came about because we needed a goalkeeper. Obviously, Jessica was a top choice,” Pinnock told SAFJA members.
“We brought her here and spent two and a half weeks on trial so that the goalkeeper coach and other coaches could get a sense of who she is and how she plays. She has done great, and they decided to sign her.”
Pinnock also reflected on the growing South African presence at the Danish club, linking Williams’ arrival to legendary Bafana Bafana figure like Sibusiso Zuma and Thapelo Maseko. The latter recently signed for the club.
“We are very excited and happy to have a second current South African here. We had Sibusiso Zuma many years ago, and now we have Thapelo Maseko, which is fantastic. Obviously, for me, it is great to have more and more South Africans around.”
JESSICA WILLIAMS REACTS TO JOINING FC COPENHAGEN
Reacting to her move, the Banyana goal-minder expressed her excitement about securing her overseas contract, highlighting the broader impact on South African football.
“Well, I feel good and a little bit overwhelmed, but I’m super grateful,” Williams stated.
“I think this is only the beginning for footballers in South Africa. Now you have me, Thapelo Maseko, and other players who also ply their trade abroad.”
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