FC Copenhagen add South African goalkeeper Jessica Williams to women’s squad

South African goalkeeper Jessica Williams has joined FC Copenhagen’s senior women’s team, strengthening the Danish club’s growing links with the country following Thapelo Maseko’s recent move to its men’s side.

Williams, 26, has signed for Copenhagen after impressing during her time with the University of Cape Town and will become the second South African player at the club this year. Her arrival follows Maseko’s switch from Mamelodi Sundowns to Copenhagen last month after the forward caught attention with his performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The goalkeeper will be introduced to Copenhagen supporters on Saturday ahead of the women’s team’s meeting with ASA Aarhus, marking the beginning of a new chapter in her career in Europe.

From Cape Town to Copenhagen

Williams, who was born in Cape Town, has earned the opportunity after making an impression in South Africa, with her development closely followed by Romaney Pinnock, Copenhagen’s Women’s Head of Football.

Pinnock believes the goalkeeper’s background and determination will make her a valuable addition to the club, while also providing an important source of inspiration for young girls in South Africa.

“Jess grew up playing with the boys in one of Cape Town’s roughest areas. Her persistence and drive have made her the player and person she is today,” Pinnock told the club’s media.

The Copenhagen official also pointed to Williams’ character and work ethic as qualities that could have an impact beyond the pitch.

“Not only will Jess bring her strong work ethic and experience to our group of FCK goalkeepers, but she will also be inspiring many girls at home to stick to their dreams.”

Williams’ journey is particularly notable given that she developed her football skills playing with boys while growing up in Cape Town. That experience has helped shape the resilience that has characterised her progression into the professional game.

Williams joins Maseko in Denmark

Her transfer also creates a unique connection between Copenhagen and South Africa, with the country now represented in both the club’s men’s and women’s senior teams.

Maseko became the first of the pair to make the move after joining Copenhagen from Mamelodi Sundowns on a four-year contract last month. The forward’s transfer came after he featured prominently for South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where his performances helped attract interest from abroad.

Williams now follows the same path, although her move has been driven by her performances at the University of Cape Town and her development as a goalkeeper.

The two signings underline Copenhagen’s increasing relationship with South African football and provide a platform for both players to continue their careers at one of Denmark’s prominent clubs.

A new platform for Williams

For Williams, the move represents an opportunity to test herself in a new footballing environment while competing for a place among Copenhagen’s senior goalkeepers.

Her first appearance before the club’s supporters will come on Saturday, when the women’s side face ASA Aarhus. The occasion will also give fans their first opportunity to welcome the newest South African addition to the Copenhagen setup.

Beyond strengthening the goalkeeping department, Williams’ arrival carries significance for aspiring female footballers back home.

Pinnock’s comments reflect the belief that the goalkeeper’s journey — from playing with boys in Cape Town to earning a move to Europe — can serve as encouragement to young girls pursuing careers in football.

With Maseko already beginning his journey with Copenhagen’s men, Williams’ arrival gives South Africa representation across both senior teams and further cements the emerging connection between the Danish club and South African football.