Bafana Bafana midfielder Teboho Mokoena says he’s motivated by the recent recognition of Ronwen Williams.
Both players have been key for both club and country in over the past few seasons, with Williams rewarded for his displays at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations with a nomination for the Lev Yashin award.
Emiliano Martínez ultimately scooped the prize as the top goalkeeper but it was a huge boost for both Bafana and Williams to be recognised on the world stage.
With South Africa having already qualified for the upcoming AFCON, Mokoena says he is inspired by the leadership of his Mamelodi Sundowns teammate.
“Ronza is a good leader.” Mokoena said. “He doesn’t talk much, when he does he is sometimes very harsh!
“But he has the attributes of a leader and he shows it on and off the field. His achievements also motivate you. I came with him from SuperSport to where he is now. In his first game for Bafana (a 5-0 friendly defeat to Brazil) he didn’t do well but look at him now!
“The people around him are doing a great job too. If it wasn’t for them he wouldn’t be where he is now. I am very proud he was nominated for a Ballon D’Or! Even me, I want to be there!”
Williams captained Bafana as they claimed a 2-0 win over Uganda on Friday.
South Africa will complete their qualifying campaign against South Sudan at a sold-out Cape Town Stadium on Tuesday.