South africa: South Africa goalkeeper Ronwen Williams has expressed disappointment over the lack of support from some Africans during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, saying it does not augur well for the team. Bafana Bafana's opening game against Mexico, which ended in a 2-0 defeat, sparked mockery on social media as many African fans appeared to support their opponents instead.

According to Ghana Web, the CAF Goalkeeper of the Year described the lack of continental support as worrying, suggesting it affects the team because 'players are human beings too.' Williams highlighted that while South Africa is dealing with issues at home, such matters should not be mixed with football. He called for unity and support, emphasizing that as Africans, there should be solidarity in both good and bad moments.

The Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper acknowledged the challenges faced by countries across the continent, stating, 'I've always said that, as Africans, we are one, we support each other in good and bad moments. We've all got our own politics, our own problems, our own fights back home. Every country does. I don't know where this stems from, but it does hurt. I've been attacked, and obviously my country as well, for things going on back home. But players are human beings too.'

Williams added that the involvement of politics in sports can be challenging for athletes who wish to focus on their careers. 'We go through it, and sometimes it gets a lot. You want to focus on your job, which is being a footballer, but then politics gets involved. That's the wonderful thing about sports, it can unite, it can break you, and it can bring people together,' he said.