Ronwen Williams calls on Mamelodi Sundowns to rebuild after continental setbacks

Mamelodi Sundowns captain Ronwen Williams has challenged his team-mates to respond to their recent disappointments and restore the club’s standing in African football.

The Bafana Bafana goalkeeper was speaking after Sundowns suffered a 3-1 defeat by USM Alger in the CAF Super Cup at Loftus Versfeld on Sunday.

The loss came only weeks after Sundowns were unexpectedly eliminated from the CAF Champions League, leaving the club with another setback on the continental stage.

Williams said the latest defeat would be difficult to overcome but insisted Sundowns had enough quality to recover, silence their critics and show they remain a major force in Africa.

“This one will hurt for a long time,” Williams said. “We planned for this game with a specific team in mind but the forced substitutions changed things a bit although the guys that came on played well.

“It’s disappointing but we are a team and we will reflect on this. We need to get back to what we once were.”

The goalkeeper also called for unity among the players and supporters, urging fans to avoid blaming individuals while acknowledging USM Alger’s performance.

“There is no point in pointing fingers now because it’s not going to help anyone and I ask that Masandawana stick together, and for the fans to be there for the boys,” he said.

“But we as players know that they deserve better. These are tough lessons we will take on board.”

Williams praised USM Alger for executing their game plan effectively, while accepting that Sundowns would have to examine their own performance after another disappointing result.

Several Sundowns players are now expected to join their respective national teams during the FIFA break over the next two weeks.

Williams believes the international period could provide the squad with an opportunity to take stock, reflect on their recent results and return with a stronger focus.

The captain’s comments come as Sundowns attempt to move beyond consecutive continental setbacks and re-establish themselves as one of Africa’s leading clubs.