Ronwen Williams: Itumeleng Khune Hails Goalkeeper Over Impressive Performance vs Cape Verde

• Ronwen Williams pulled off a masterclass as South Africa edged out Cape Verde in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations
• The 32-year-old saved four spot kicks to send Bafana Bafana into the semis
• Legendary Itumeleng Khune has reacted to the performance of the Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper

South Africa are through to the semi-final of the ongoing 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, thanks to a sensational performance by Ronwen Williams.

The goalkeeper was the hero for Bafana Bafana as they edged out Cape Verde after an intense quarter-final clash in Yamoussoukro on Saturday night.

The Mamelodi Sundowns shot-stopper saved four penalty kicks in a dramatic climax, helping his nation win the tie and setting up a clash with Nigeria.

During the course of the game, Williams denied Garry Rodrigues from the spot in the 56th minute and also produced a fantastic reflex save to deny Gilson Benchimol in stoppage time.

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It had ended 0-0 after 90 minutes, and it remained goalless at the end of extra time as the game proceeded into a penalty shootout.

Teboho Mokoena and Mothobi Mvala were successful for South Africa, and although Bryan Teixeira was on target for Cape Verde, Williams denied Bebe, Willy Semedo, Laros Duarte and Patrick Andrade to send Bafana Bafana into the last four.

Cape Verde were unable to capitalise, with four of their players failing to convert from the spot, Euro Sport reports.

After the game, legendary Itumeleng Khune took to social media to hail the goalkeeper, crediting him for South Africa's victory.

Khune wrote:

"Best In The Country and Continent. Ronwen Williams give him his flowers. 4 Penalty Saves 4 CleanSheets. #Respect Boeta."

Hugo Broos hails Ronwen Williams

Sports Brief earlier reported that South Africa head coach Hugo Broos showered praise on goalkeeper Ronwen Williams for his exceptional performance in the penalty shootout against Cape Verde.

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Williams made history by becoming the first goalkeeper in AFCON to save four penalties in a shootout and achieved a fourth clean sheet.

This feat matched compatriot Andre Arendse's record set in the 1996 tournament held in South Africa.