CAF C/League: Ronwen Williams other AFCON stars set to shine
Barely two weeks after the showcased their skills at the just ended 34th AFCON in Cote d Ivoire, no fewer than five stars are set to battle as the CAF Champions League begin this weekend.
As the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League recommences, attention turns to these standout performers, poised to carry their momentum into club competition.
Here are the top five players from the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON 2023 set to light up the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League:
1. Ronwen Williams (GK) – Mamelodi Sundowns & South Africa
The hero of South Africa’s bronze medal triumph, Ronwen Williams, proved his mettle between the sticks with breathtaking saves throughout AFCON 2023. As captain of both Mamelodi Sundowns and the South Africa national team, Williams’ commanding presence and shot-stopping prowess earned him the title of the tournament’s best goalkeeper. His heroics, notably in the quarter-finals penalty shootout against Cape Verde, cemented his status as one of Africa’s premier goalkeepers.
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2. Teboho Mokoena (MF) – Mamelodi Sundowns & South Africa
Teboho Mokoena’s midfield mastery was instrumental in South Africa’s AFCON journey, earning him a coveted spot in the tournament’s Best XI. The Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder showcased his versatility, contributing both defensively and offensively with flair and finesse. His highlight moment, a sublime free-kick in South Africa’s stunning victory over Morocco, underscored his importance to both club and country.
3. Henock Inonga (DF) – Simba SC & DR Congo
Forming a formidable defensive partnership for DR Congo, Henock Inonga’s commanding presence at the back was instrumental in the Leopards’ fourth-place finish at AFCON 2023. Representing Simba SC at the club level, Inonga’s solid performances showcased his ability to thwart opposition attacks and marshal his defensive line with authority. His leadership and defensive nous will be crucial assets as Simba SC resumes their African Champions League campaign.
4. Gilberto Deivi Miguel (FW) – Petro Atletico & Angola
Gilberto Deivi Miguel’s attacking flair shone bright for Angola at AFCON 2023, despite their quarter-final exit. The Petro Atletico forward showcased his predatory instincts and offensive prowess, providing a constant threat to opposition defenses. At just 22 years old, Miguel’s potential is limitless, and his performances at both club and international level mark him as one to watch in the African Champions League.
AFCON stars set to battle in CAF Champions league.
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5. Djigui Diarra (GK) – Young Africans & Mali
As the custodian of Mali’s goal, Djigui Diarra’s shot-stopping heroics were pivotal in guiding the Malian Eagles to the quarter-finals of AFCON 2023. Representing Young Africans at the club level, Diarra’s agility and reflexes were on full display throughout the tournament, earning him plaudits for his commanding presence between the posts. His performances for both club and country make him a key figure to watch as the African Champions League action resumes. With the star performance by these players at the just ened AFCON, it is apparent that the CAF Champions League will equally be full of thrills.
TotalEnergies CAF Champions League Match Day 5 Fixtures:
Friday, 23 February
16h00 GMT | Al-Hilal – Petro de Luanda
16h00 GMT | Medeama – Al Ahly SC
19h00 GMT | Asec Mimosas – Simba SC
Saturday, 24 February
13h00 GMT | Jwaneng Galaxy – Wydad AC
13h00 GMT | TP Mazembe – Pyramids FC
16h00 GMT | Nouadhibou – Mamelodi Sundowns FC
16h00 GMT | Young Africans – CR Belouizdad
19h00 GMT | ES Sahel – ES Tunis