Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has declared his admiration for Mamelodi Sundowns shot-stopper Ronwen Williams as he hails him as the best goalkeeper in the world, Soccernet.ng reports.
Nwabali’s endorsement comes despite the presence of star names like Thibaut Courtois, Emiliano Martínez, and André Onana delivering impressive performances for their respective clubs and countries.
The 32-year-old Williams had a standout season with Mamelodi Sundowns where he kept an impressive 30 clean sheets in 46 matches.
His brilliance extended to the international stage, where he was instrumental in Bafana Bafana’s third-place finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire, recording five clean sheets in seven matches.
In an interview with iDiski Times, Nwabali praised Williams for his consistent performances both at the club and international levels.
“I really see Ronwen Williams, and not because we are in the same league, but I really see him as the best goalkeeper in the world. He really inspires me with how he plays.” he said as quoted by IOL.
Williams’ excellence has not gone unnoticed, with the South African goalkeeper being nominated for the prestigious Yashin Trophy, an award for the world’s best goalkeeper, making him the first African-based footballer to make Ballon d’Or nominees list.
The recognition puts him among elite names, but for Nwabali, Williams’ AFCON heroics and club success make him stand out even more.
“Ronwen Williams did really well, and not only at AFCON but at club level as well,” Nwabali added.
The Yashin Trophy, first awarded in 2019, is named after Soviet legend Lev Yashin and has been claimed by top goalkeepers such as Alisson, Gianluigi Donnarumma, and current holder Emiliano Martínez.