Sundowns goalkeeper Ronwen Williams warns of tough Al Ahly test

Ronwen Williams says Mamelodi Sundowns must remain focused and avoid mistakes when they face Al Ahly in Saturday’s Africa-Asia-Pacific Cup match in the Club World Cup.

The South Africa international expects a difficult contest against the Saudi Arabian side, who he described as a two-time consecutive Asian champion.

“It is great to face a team like Al Ahly, the Asian champions for two successive years,” Williams told the official FIFA website. “That is why our task will be extremely difficult, and we must stay focused and avoid making mistakes.”

The match carries major importance for both sides as they compete for qualification and the chance to continue their campaigns in the Club World Cup.

Williams said Al Ahly’s squad included several high-profile players who featured at the most recent World Cup for their respective national teams. He singled out Brazilian defender Roger Ibanez, Turkey international Merih Demiral, England striker Ivan Toney and Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy.

“It will be a difficult match against the holders of the AFC Champions League Elite title twice in succession,” Williams added. “Al Ahly have a group of outstanding players who played at the last World Cup with their countries, such as Roger Ibanez, Merih Demiral, Ivan Toney and Edouard Mendy.”

The Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper also spoke about facing Mendy, saying he had followed the Senegal international’s career closely and admired what he had achieved in Africa.

Williams has watched Mendy’s progress but has never previously played against him.

“I admire the wonderful career Mendy has had,” he said. “I followed him closely throughout his career, but I have never had the opportunity to play against him before.

“I know him well because I have watched his career and seen him achieve many accomplishments with the Senegal national team.”

The meeting between Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly is expected to attract significant attention because of its wider international setting, with both teams seeking to secure a place in the next stage of the competition.