Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper Ronwen Williams expects thrilling showdown against Al Ahli

Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper Ronwen Williams is expecting an exciting encounter when the South African giants take on Saudi Arabian side Al Ahli in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup on Saturday.

The two continental champions will meet at Loftus Versfeld in what promises to be a highly competitive clash, with Sundowns representing Africa and Al Ahli coming into the fixture as champions of Asia.

Williams believes the nature of the game will be different from the matches Sundowns regularly face in the domestic league, where opponents often adopt a more defensive approach against the reigning South African champions.

The Bafana Bafana goalkeeper expects Al Ahli to take a more attacking approach, which could result in an open contest with both sides looking to impose themselves and secure victory.

“We know when we play in the local league, we know that teams obviously sit back, but I don’t see that happening now. So I think it’s going to be an open game,” Williams told Sundowns’ media team.

“Like I mentioned, it’s a Cup final. Both teams want to win it. We know what’s at stake.”

Williams also admitted that the significance of the occasion was already giving him goosebumps as the highly anticipated fixture draws closer.

“I can, you know, just speaking now, I’m getting goosebumps just thinking about the magnitude of the game and what is at stake,” he added.

The Sundowns captain is expected to play a crucial role between the posts, particularly against an Al Ahli side boasting considerable attacking quality.

For Sundowns, the encounter represents another opportunity to test themselves against elite opposition from outside Africa, while Al Ahli will be equally determined to showcase the strength of Asian club football.

With both sides carrying continental pedigree into the encounter, Williams expects the Loftus Versfeld clash to produce an entertaining spectacle, with the stakes high for both teams.