AFCON 2023 Count Down: Top five goalkeepers to watch at the Tournament

As we inch closer to the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON), excitement is brewing among football enthusiasts. Set to commence on January 13th in Ivory Coast, this year’s AFCON edition promises a spectacular showcase of talent and skill, especially among the goalkeepers. 

Let’s dive into the top five goalkeepers who are expected to make significant impacts at the tournament.

Ronwen Hayden Williams – South Africa, Mamelodi Sundowns

A beacon of consistency for South Africa’s national team, Ronwen Hayden Williams has been turning heads with his performances at Mamelodi Sundowns. His impressive record of nine clean sheets in eleven games this season highlights his formidable presence between the posts. Not only is Williams an exceptional shot-stopper, but he’s also a pivotal leader for the Bafana Bafana. His contribution will be crucial in determining South Africa’s fate in the tournament.

Mohamed El Shenawy – Egypt, Al Ahly

Egypt’s Mohamed El Shenawy, with his vast experience and remarkable agility, is a key player to watch. Having represented Egypt over 50 times and with a rich history of success at Al Ahly, including three CAF Champions League victories, El Shenawy’s expertise will be vital for Egypt. His performances, including eight clean sheets this season, demonstrate his readiness for AFCON.

Yassine Bounou – Morocco, Al-Hilal SFC

Yassine Bounou, the Moroccan star who shone at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, is now ready to make his mark at AFCON. Playing for Al-Hilal SFC, Yassine Bounou is one of the exceptional goalkeepers known for his exceptional reflexes and penalty-saving prowess. His record of three clean sheets at the World Cup is just a glimpse of what he can bring to the tournament.

Stanley Nwabali – Nigeria, Chippa United

Nigeria’s Stanley Nwabali might be a surprise package in this tournament. His inclusion in the Super Eagles squad is a testament to his impressive performances at Chippa United, where he has already kept seven clean sheets this season. Nwabali’s agility and command over the penalty area make him a goalkeeper to watch out for in the tournament.

Andre Onana – Cameroon, Manchester United

Cameroon’s Andre Onana, currently with Manchester United, has had a challenging season but is known for his resilience and skill. His experience with top European clubs like Inter Milan and Ajax underscores his capability. Onana’s ability to bounce back and his determination to excel make him a crucial figure for Cameroon in the tournament.

As the AFCON 2023 gears up, these goalkeepers are set to display their skills, showcasing their abilities to make crucial saves and lead from the back. Their performances are sure to be a highlight of the tournament, adding an extra layer of excitement to the games. Keep an eye on these goalkeepers as they aim to guide their teams to glory in the much-anticipated African football spectacle.