Bafana Bafana captain Ronwen Williams has shown incredible dedication to his country by travelling with the team to Ivory Coast just days after the birth of his daughter.
Bafana take on the 2023 AFCON hosts in their backyard on Tuesday night in an international friendly.
South Africa coach Hugo Broos is using the match to gauge the readiness of his charges ahead of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers next month.
The Mamelodi Sundowns goalie was blessed with a bouncing baby girl on Wednesday last week, just two days before the Eswatini goalless draw.
Bafana jetted off to the West African country on Saturday morning with Williams, who is still nursing an injury, as part of the travelling party.
“I want to make a happy announcement: Ronwen became yesterday (Wednesday) father of a beautiful girl,” Broos said on Thursday.
“We congratulate him and his girlfriend. I saw a very happy papa this morning at breakfast, so we were all happy for him.
“She’s is really, really beautiful. I saw a photograph of her. He did really well, Ronwen.”
RONWEN WILLIAMS’ DEDICATION PRAISED BY MANY
Williams’ decision has been praised by many, who have hailed him for his dedication and commitment to the South African national team.
The 31-year-old is one of the most critical players in the Bafana Bafana squad, and he is expected to play a key role in their upcoming matches.
Williams’ dedication is a shining example of what it means to be a professional footballer. He is a role model for young players worldwide.
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In addition to his dedication to his country, Williams’ decision to travel with the national team camp just two days after his wife gave birth is also a testament to his love for football.
Football is a demanding sport requiring players to make sacrifices in their personal lives. Williams’ decision is a reminder that football is more than just a game to many players. It is a way of life.
Williams’ dedication to his country and football inspires us all.
Bafana returns to South Africa on Wednesday, but the Sundowns goalie must connect to Angola immediately.
The South African champions play Girabola champions Petro de Luanda on Saturday in the newly formed African Football League.
Petro knocked Sundowns out of the CAF Champions League two seasons ago. Masandawana will be looking to get one over them this time.