Ronwen Williams Reveals How Orlando Pirates’ Relebohile Mofokeng Checked on Him During Injury Spell

Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper Ronwen Williams has opened up about a heartwarming moment during his recent injury layoff, revealing how Orlando Pirates star Relebohile Mofokeng consistently checked in on him.

Williams, who returned to action in Sundowns’ clash against AmaZulu, was taken aback when Mofokeng reached out to him just days before the Buccaneers and Masandawana faced off in a crucial Premier Soccer League (PSL) encounter. The gesture left the veteran shot-stopper with goosebumps, as he never expected such concern from a direct rival.

Williams’ Shock and Gratitude

Speaking about the experience, Williams expressed his surprise and appreciation for Mofokeng’s thoughtful messages.

“The slight injury that I had has done me wonders, and just receiving a message from Rele Mofokeng, of all people, saying, ‘Skips, what’s going on? I see you’re not playing,’ it just made me feel so happy,” Williams shared.

“I got goosebumps when I saw him send me that message, and yet we were going to come up against each other in a week’s time.”

Williams acknowledged that the injury layoff provided him with a much-needed chance to recharge ahead of a busy schedule for both club and country.

“It refreshed me; it’s given me time to just sit back, miss a game, and hopefully re-energize in this business end that’s coming up for club and country.”

On-Field Rivalry Resumes

Despite their off-field camaraderie, the two players found themselves on opposite ends when Pirates and Sundowns met in a recent PSL showdown. Mofokeng stole the show, scoring twice to help the Buccaneers secure a vital victory over the defending champions. Meanwhile, Williams, making his return between the posts, managed to keep a clean sheet in his comeback game against AmaZulu but was unable to keep Mofokeng at bay in their direct face-off.

National Team Duty Beckons

Following their club battle, Williams and Mofokeng quickly transitioned into teammates as they joined the Bafana Bafana squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. South Africa is set to face Lesotho on March 21 before taking on Benin in Ivory Coast on March 25. With crucial points at stake, the duo will now put aside club rivalries to work towards securing qualification for the global showpiece.

Williams’ revelation about Mofokeng’s thoughtful gesture highlights the mutual respect and camaraderie shared among South African footballers, even when club allegiances place them on opposite sides of the pitch. Now, their focus shifts towards helping Bafana Bafana achieve success on the international stage.