Khune warns Williams against complacency after Bafana’s 5-0 win

Former Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune has urged Ronwen Williams to avoid over-confidence after South Africa’s 5-0 victory over Eritrea in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

The result kept Bafana Bafana at the top of Group D, with six points from their opening two matches. Relebohile Mofokeng scored twice, while Sphephelo Sithole, Iqraam Rayners and Luther Singh were also on target.

South Africa eventually secured a convincing win, but Eritrea made an assertive start and tested the hosts’ defence during the opening stages. Williams, who plays for Mamelodi Sundowns, was required to make a save as the visitors looked to take advantage of moments of uncertainty.

Khune believes the early pressure should serve as a warning to Williams, saying the goalkeeper must remain focused and recognise that he faces competition for his place in the national team.

“Yeah, it was a nervy start for Ronwen,” said Khune on SABC 2.

“Even in the second half, I was a bit worried. I think sometimes he’s over confident, and that’s when he makes mistakes.

“So I think he needs to eliminate that because maybe he was taking the opposition for granted because at the end of the day, if you concede like that, I mean, there’s Sipho Chaine there waiting.

“Look at the other error, he wasn’t switched on. Instead of tipping the ball over, he gave them half a chance.”

Khune’s concerns were focused on Williams’ concentration rather than the final result, with South Africa maintaining their perfect start to qualifying despite Eritrea’s promising spell at the beginning of the game.

The former Bafana Bafana number one also pointed to the presence of Sipho Chaine as evidence that Williams cannot afford to assume his position is secure. He said lapses in decision-making, including failing to tip the ball over the bar, could give opponents opportunities and create an opening for a goalkeeper waiting to replace him.