Latest news with #RonwenWilliams
News24
3 days ago
- Business
- News24
Sundowns come short in CAF Champions League final
Sundowns' defence failed to deal with easy balls in the box Rayners' goal was not enough for Sundowns. Coach Cardoso loses the second successive CAF final. It was a case of so near yet so far for Mamelodi Sundowns, as they failed at the last hurdle of the CAF Champions League. The South African champions lost a game they should have won easily had they defended well at the end and taken their chances in front of goal. They missed the opportunity of being awarded the trophy by their former chairperson, Patrice Motsepe, who is now the CAF president. Despite launching a late onslaught, Sundowns still went 2-1 down to Pyramids of Egypt in the second leg of the final on Sunday. They lost the two-legged final 3-2 on aggregate after the two teams played to a 1-all draw at Loftus a week ago. In the process, the Egyptians lifted their maiden Champions League trophy, denying the Brazilians a second star. Needing a victory or a high-scoring draw to lift the trophy, Sundowns started on the bright side, putting the hosts on the back foot from the start of the game. However, they were undone by poor defending at the back when Grant Kekana's weak clearance fell on the path of Fiston Mayele, who beat Ronwen Williams with a low shot. Sundowns should have gone to the break level, but Tashreeq Matthews squandered a golden opportunity when he failed to find the back of the net on the stroke of halftime. The hosts increased their lead in the 56th minute when Ahmed Sawy's low header beat Williams from a free kick. Iqraam Rayners pulled one back for Sundowns with about 20 minutes left on the clock, which made for an interesting end of the game. Knowing that a draw would be enough to lift the trophy, Sundowns threw everything at Pyramids and twice came close to levelling matters. However, Pyramids hung on until the final whistle.
IOL News
6 days ago
- Sport
- IOL News
Mamelodi Sundowns can inspire the nation with CAF Champions League triumph, says Ronwen Williams
Ronwen Williams Sundowns goalkeeper Ronwen Williams will hope to keep a clean-sheet against Pyramids on Sunday. Photo: BackpagePix Image: BackpagePix Mamelodi Sundowns' players have been the epitome of success in domestic football in the last nine years, inspiring every emerging youngster to dare to dream And that's why they want to add another feather in their cap by conquering the continent yet again to instil even more belief in future prospects. Sundowns recently won their eighth successive Premiership crown, ensuring they are the best club in the PSL era with 15 titles. As such, that made the dreams a reality of players, coaches and staff who wanted to join football so that they can win league titles over the years. Before the success came, Sundowns were infamously known for ending careers, with players said to be joining the club for big pay-cheques, only to sit in the stands. But thanks to the arrival of coach Pitso Mosimane more than a decade ago, players have since wanted to join the club to win trophies and play among the best teams in Africa. Under the reign of Mosimane, Sundowns' players achieved all forms of success, winning the Premiership and CAF Champions League, and playing in the Club World Cup. However, while the local success continued under Mosimane's successors, Rulani Mokwena and Manqoba Mngqithi, it didn't come full circle on the continent. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Enter Miguel Cardoso, and the script may change this season. The Portuguese mentor has led his team to the Champions League final for the first time since Mosimane triumphed in 2016. Sundowns had a mild start in the first leg of the continental showdown at home, drawing 1-1 with Pyramids FC, who took an away goal to the second leg in Cairo on Sunday night (7pm). That was a setback for the Brazilians as they conceded late in Pretoria through Walid El Karti, after Lucas Ribeiro Costa had put them in the driving seat in the second half. But such is the team's never-say-die attitude that Ronwen Williams, speaking to SuperSport TV yesterday, painted a picture of what it would mean to rule the continent yet again. 'It will mean so much – the world. I honestly can't express how it'll feel at that moment. I just know what it'd do for the country and youth of South Africa,' the Bafana Bafana captain said. 'When people have success, you resonate with them. 'Interestingly, a few years ago, there was no success in South African sport, but back-to-back Rugby (World Cup) championships inspired us. 'We had a wonderful Afcon (with Bafana), and now you see the cricket, athletics, Under-17 and Under-20 (men's national teams) are also doing well. 'I think it just needs one team to trigger, do it, and show us all that it is possible. 'I think with us doing that, (it) will even give the youth in our country extra motivation. 'They'll start believing that they can do greater things. So for me, the inspiring side is one of the reasons I want us to lift the Champions League!' 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐢𝐭 𝐦𝐞𝐚𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐰𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 #𝐓𝐨𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐄𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐢𝐞𝐬𝐂𝐀𝐅𝐂𝐋? Ronwen Williams shares what it would mean to him and the impact it could have on the youth in South Africa 🇿🇦#SSDiski — SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) May 29, 2025 One of the youngsters who could live a first-hand experience of winning the continental crown is defender Malibongwe Khoza, 21, who remembers the 2016 triumph. 'It's my first season here, and the last time they won the Champions League was in 2016 when I joined Sundowns (as a teenager),' Khoza told Masandawana TV this week. 'So it (winning the Champions League) would mean a lot to me, my family and ikasi lam (my township), Mamelodi. I am representing everyone from eKasi.' The majority of the Ka Bo Yellow (Sundowns fans) will not be able to follow the team to Cairo, and cheer them on like they did when they sold-out Loftus Versfeld last Saturday. But Khoza, who'll be eager to make his mark and help the team in Cairo, says they'll be banking on their supporters' backing from a distance. 'It's unfortunate that we didn't do it here at home, but we still need them (the Yellow Nation). We need them to support us,' Khoza continued. 'We are going to play for them, the club and the badge. 'So, we still need them, even when we are as far as Cairo.'
BBC News
24-05-2025
- Sport
- BBC News
Pyramids grab late equaliser in African Champions League final
Pyramids netted a stoppage-time equaliser to spoil the party for Mamelodi Sundowns and leave the African Champions League final finely poised at 1-1 after the first leg in hosts took the lead at a sold-out Loftus Versfeld eight minutes after half-time when forward Lucas Ribeiro followed up a shot and tucked the ball into the net from just outside the six yard dominating the second period, fans of the South African club were beginning to celebrate what they thought would be an important victory until Walid El Karti connected with Mohanad Lasheen's cross and sent his header past Sundowns keeper Ronwen Williams in the 94th a tournament where the away goals rule is still in effect, the late leveller could prove enough for first-time finalists Pyramids to lift the new-look Champions League trophy and pick up $4m in prize formed in 2008, the club has been transformed into one of Egypt's top sides since being taken over by Saudi Arabian investors in who will play in Fifa's expanded Club World Cup next month, are chasing their second continental title and are back in the final for the first time since their triumph in two sides will meet again at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo on Sunday, 1 June (17:00 GMT). Visitors provide late drama Sundowns had eliminated record 12-time champions Al Ahly at the semi-final stage on away goals while Pyramids saw off Sundowns' provincial rivals Orlando Pirates 3-2 on an entertaining opening 45 minutes played out in beautiful weather, Sundowns had more possession but it was the visitors who carved out three clear-cut Fiston Mayele, the competition's joint-top scorer this season, sent the first two off target and was flagged offside for the third as he again failed to test composure of Pyramids eventually began to wane in the second half as they could be seen retreating, struggling to maintain sustained possession and barely causing issues for Atef was awarded a yellow card for time-wasting as early as the 48th minute as Krunoslav Jurcic's side looked content to try and play for a eventually broke the deadlock but Sundowns could not add to their lead and, despite playing in a sea of yellow with virtually none of their own fans in attendance, Pyramids front man El Karti provided a late are the dominant force in South African football, recently wrapping up a record-extending eighth consecutive domestic title, and will have to negotiate a potentially difficult second Pyramids do not boast the level of support enjoyed by Cairo rivals Al Ahly and Zamalek, Juric's men will hope to capitalise upon hot evening conditions in North Africa and take a step towards establishing themselves as a giant of the continental game.
The Citizen
24-05-2025
- Sport
- The Citizen
Four key Sundowns players to look out for in CAF final
Loftus Versfeld will stage the first leg on Saturday afternoon, before the decisive return fixture in Cairo eight days later. Tebogo Mokoena of Mamelodi Sundowns during a training at Chloorkop in Johannesburg on 23 May 2025 ©AlcheGreeff/BackpagePix There will be a sense of disappointment if Mamelodi Sundowns fail to capture the 2024–25 CAF Champions League title. The Brazilians are tipped as favourites to overcome Egypt's Pyramids FC in a two-legged final. Loftus Versfeld will stage the first leg on Saturday afternoon, before the decisive return fixture in Cairo eight days later. While this marks Pyramids' debut appearance in the prestigious continental final, Sundowns will be contesting their third. ALSO READ: Cardoso promises to stick to Sundowns identity in Champions League final Sundowns first reached the final in 2001, losing to Al Ahly, before lifting the trophy in 2016 under the guidance of Pitso Mosimane. Phakaaathi football journalist Katlego Modiba highlights four key Sundowns players who could be decisive in their pursuit of continental glory. Ronwen Williams The ever-reliable Ronwen Williams has become indispensable for Sundowns. More than just a shot-stopper, he is a leader both on and off the pitch. With club captain Themba Zwane sidelined for much of the season due to an Achilles injury, Williams has taken on the captaincy and led with distinction. The 33-year-old has kept six clean sheets in 11 Champions League appearances this season, anchoring the team's run to the final. A strong showing in goal during the first leg could prove vital to securing a second continental star. Peter Shalulile Sundowns' journey to the final would likely have faltered without the contributions of Peter Shalulile. The Namibian striker has scored three crucial goals en route to the final and consistently steps up when it matters most. In the group stages against Maniema Union, he came off the bench to score the equaliser before forcing an injury-time own goal to seal a dramatic comeback. He also netted the only goal across both legs of the quarter-final clash with Espérance, securing their passage to the semi-finals. Teboho Mokoena Teboho Mokoena is the heartbeat of Sundowns' midfield. Acting as the crucial link between defence and attack, his intelligence and positional awareness allow him to break up opposition play and drive the team forward. Over the past few seasons, Mokoena has established himself as a consistent performer. Now, he is just two matches away from fulfilling the promise he made to club chairman Tlhopie Motsepe when he signed—to help deliver the Champions League title. Grant Kekana Often overlooked, Grant Kekana is a vital figure in Sundowns' defensive unit. He marshals the backline with authority, making it difficult for attackers to get past him. Kekana is rarely beaten in one-on-one situations and is comfortable playing the ball out from the back. ALSO READ: Zwane believes current Sundowns team is better than the class of 2016 Alongside Williams, his calm presence will be crucial in containing Pyramids' danger man, Fiston Mayele. The Congolese striker has already netted eight goals in the tournament, including a semi-final brace that eliminated Orlando Pirates.
IOL News
23-05-2025
- Sport
- IOL News
Six of the best may decide Mamelodi Sundowns, Pyramids FC's CAF Champions League fate
Ronwen Williams Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper Ronwen Williams has exceptional shot-stopping ability, strong distribution and composure in crucial moments like penalty shoot-outs. Photo: BackpagePix Image: BackpapgePix With Mamelodi Sundowns and Egyptian upstarts Pyramids FC boasting an array of talent, the spotlight will be on six stand-out players whose performances could tilt the balance in favour of their teams. The teams go head-to-head at the sold-out Loftus Versfeld in Saturday's CAF Champions League final first-leg clash (3pm kick-off), and eyes will be trained on the stand-out players who could very well determine the fate of their teams. Sundowns will bank on the brilliance of Teboho Mokoena, Lucas Ribeiro and Ronwen Williams. The visiting Pyramids expect their kingpins Mohamed Chibi, Fiston Mayele and Mostafa Fethi will make decisive contributions on the day. Each of these players brings a unique skill-set that enhances the already formidable arsenal of the teams... 1 Teboho Mokoena (Sundowns) Mokoena, a constant force in Sundowns' team, has made a name for himself as a playmaking midfielder renowned for his adeptness at manipulating the tempo of games. While he may not possess the physicality that some of his peers boast, Mokoena offsets this with various skills that enable him to create opportunities and control matches with finesse. Consistency is a hallmark of Mokoena's career. His steady performances have forged his reputation as the backbone of the team. 2 Lucas Ribeiro Costa (Sundowns) In the vibrant tapestry of SA football, few threads shimmer quite as brightly as that of Brazilian Lucas Ribeiro Costa, the Sundowns forward renowned for his exceptional skills. Praised for his dribbling, shooting, passing, and blistering pace, Ribeiro has carved a niche in the Premiership, earning accolades as one of the league's most gifted athletes. Ribeiro has showcased a unique flair that captivates fans and analysts alike. His technical prowess enables him to weave through defenders with ease. 3 Ronwen Williams (Sundowns) Few players possess the poise and talent that goalkeeper Ronwen Williams brings to the pitch. His exceptional shot-stopping ability and sharp reflexes consistently distinguished him as one of the country's finest talents. Whether it's the tension of a cup final or the intensity of league match play, Williams' prowess offers the team a formidable presence between the posts. The Bafana star is noted for his astonishing agility. During penalty shootouts, he's become a reliable saviour for his team. 4 Mostafa Fethi (Pyramids FC) In the competitive landscape of African football, few players stand out like Mostafa Fathi, Pyramids' right wing. With an enviable skill-set and an innate ability to control the ball with finesse, Fathi has become a key player for his club and a pivotal figure in the broader narrative of Egyptian football. Fathi's playing style is defined by his exceptional ball control, which allows him to navigate through opposition defences. He can adapt to multiple positions with aplomb. 5 Mohamed Chibi (Pyramids FC) As a defender, his robust athleticism and remarkable agility make him a daunting figure for attackers, often disrupting their rhythm and thwarting goal-scoring opportunities. His most outstanding asset is his tactical awareness. Chibi demonstrates an innate ability to read the game, consistently anticipating the opposition's moves. This foresight allows him to position himself adeptly, cutting off passing lanes and intercepting balls, a skill that has saved his team on numerous occasions. 6 Fiston Mayele (Pyramids FC) The Democratic Republic of Congo-born striker Fiston Mayele knows the path to the opposition's goals. As a Kaizer Chiefs transfer target, he'll attract loads of attention at Loftus. With an unerring sense of position and an instinct for scoring, Mayele has quickly established himself as an asset to his team. Yet, like any athlete, he possesses a volatile mix of strengths and weaknesses that shape his dynamic performance on the field.
