AFCON 2023: Rowen Williams confident in defense ahead of the semifinal against Nigeria
South Africa's goalkeeper, Ronwen Williams, has expressed unwavering confidence in his team's defensive prowess, asserting that containing the threat posed by Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Moses Simon will pose no significant challenge, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Speaking at a pre-match press briefing on Tuesday ahead of Nigeria's showdown with South Africa in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations semifinal, Williams emphasized the capability of the South African backline to handle the attacking trio.
Nigeria's Lookman has been in fine form, scoring three goals in the tournament, with Osimhen netting once and securing a crucial penalty in their hard-fought victory over Ivory Coast. Simon, too, has left his mark, forcing an own goal against Equatorial Guinea.
The Bafana Bafana captain's remarks come on the back of a defensive masterclass from South Africa, who have kept four consecutive clean sheets in the tournament.
When quizzed about the prospect of facing Nigeria's formidable attackers, Williams affirmed, "Definitely. We are looking forward to the challenge. It’s going to be tough but we’ve been facing similar players throughout the tournament and I think our defence has been rock solid."
He further highlighted the collective effort of the team in defensive duties, acknowledging the crucial role played by the strikers in supporting the defensive line.
"Our back four has been amazing throughout the tournament so we know it’s going to be a tough challenge but one that we are looking forward to," Williams added, exuding confidence ahead of the crucial semifinal encounter.
By Olujimi Dare Ogun
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