Ronwen Williams sends emotional message to SA supporters

South Africa made history by reaching the knockouts at the global showpiece after finishing runners-up in a group featuring hosts Mexico, South Korea and Czechia.

Speaking to SABC Sport after the heartbreaking exit, Williams took time to thank Bafana supporters for their unwavering backing. 

"It's emotional when you see us coming together as a country to unite in difficult moments, and to see all the videos of people celebrating and staying up late to watch our games - I can only be proud."

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Bafana’s next assignment will be to qualify for the Afcon next year in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. Williams says that’s a non-negotiable. 

Williams believed there were glimpses of the strong team Bafana can be when at their best, although that performance did not shine through against Canada. 

"They are a team who presses very aggressively, but against us they sat back, which means they obviously respected the way we play. I'm proud of the boys and we must all be proud but we must also know that we have to take lessons from this and be better in the future."