Comment by Smiso Msomi
The recently concluded Confederation of African Football (CAF) Awards ignited a storm of debate and disappointment, particularly among South African football fans and players.
Held in the vibrant city of Marrakech, Morocco, the ceremony was touted as a celebration of African football excellence – but ultimately raised more questions than it answered.
A focal point of this year’s awards was Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, who dazzled the audience by winning both the Goalkeeper of the Year and Interclub Player of the Year awards.
However, his omission from the prestigious African Team of the Year left many scratching their heads.
The decision to include Cameroon’s Andre Onana, currently with Manchester United, instead of Williams in the best XI has sparked outrage and disbelief.
Despite being crowned the continent’s top goalkeeper, Williams’ exclusion begs the question: how can one be recognised as the best in their position without making it to the elite team?
Williams’ exceptional performances at the Africa Cup of Nations this year, particularly his remarkable feat of saving four penalties against Cape Verde during the quarter-finals, showcased his immense talent and leadership.
Under his stewardship, Bafana Bafana secured a bronze medal, solidifying their standing in African football.
Beyond international duty, Williams played an instrumental role at his club, Mamelodi Sundowns, leading a defence that conceded a mere 11 goals across 30 matches.
His stellar performances contributed to the club clinching a seventh consecutive league title, and also saw the Brazilians claim the first ever edition of the African Football League.
His recognition as a nominee for the prestigious Yashin Trophy at the Ballon d’Or further highlighted his status on the world stage, making history as the first South African footballer to be nominated for such an accolade.
In addition to Williams’ omission, teammates Khuliso Mudau and Teboho Mokoena also found themselves on the fringes of recognition despite outstanding seasons.
Mudau’s impressive displays, notably against Morocco during Afcon, showcased his capabilities, making a powerful case for inclusion alongside the world’s elite.
His consistent performance over the last year may even suggest he could rival established names like Paris Saint-Germain’s Achraf Hakimi.
Mokoena’s absence from the best XI is similarly perplexing, especially when reviewing the performances of those who made the cut, such as Moroccan Sofiane Amrabat and Yves Bissouma from Mali.
Amrabat has faced challenges in the Premier League with Manchester United before being shipped off to Fenerbahce in Turkey, and Bissouma’s inconsistent stint at Tottenham hardly stands toe-to-toe with Mokoena’s contributions at both club and international level.
This pattern of overlooking African-based talent in favour of European-based players raises critical questions regarding the criteria and decision-making by the CAF judging panel.
The apparent preference for players plying their trade in Europe seems to diminish the achievements of those performing remarkably within Africa, thus sparking a debate on the integrity of the awards.
For many, the CAF Awards was a missed opportunity to honour not just the winners, but also those whose hard work and talent have significantly contributed to the beautiful game on the continent.
As the dust settles on the event, one can only hope that the judging criteria will be revisited to ensure that deserving players like Williams and his teammates receive the recognition they rightly deserve.