Ex-Chiefs star describes why Ronwen Williams is still better than Sipho Chaine

Former Kaize Chiefs star Jabu Mahlangu believes Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine must significantly improve his distribution if he hopes to genuinely compete with Ronwen Williams for the Bafana Bafana number-one jersey, despite keeping a clean sheet in a 1-0 friendly win over Egypt.

Chaine was handed a rare starting opportunity by head coach Pitso Mosimane at Cairo International Stadium on Sunday. The 29-year-old played 62 solid minutes before being substituted, helping lay the groundwork for a historic victory secured by youngster Puso Dithejane’s lone goal.

While the performance marked a positive outing for the national team’s regular second-choice goalkeeper, Mahlangu argued that the demands of modern international football highlight a clear gap between Chaine and team captain Williams.

Ex-Chiefs star on what Chaine still lacks

Speaking on SABC Sport, the former Kaizer Chiefs and Pirates playmaker stressed that top-level goalkeepers must be adept with the ball at their feet and comfortable acting as sweeper-keepers when defenders are under pressure.

“I think that’s where Ronwen is superior to Chaine, because he is more involved. He is more of a sweeper,” Mahlangu said as quoted by KickOff.

“Look, he is a good goalkeeper, but unfortunately, he is lacking in that area. You have to play with your feet so the outfield players can trust you when they need to pass back under pressure. At his age, I wonder if he will have enough time to adapt to how modern keepers play.”

Pirates keeper was outstanding in 2025-26

Chaine earned his national team call-up following an exceptional domestic campaign with Orlando Pirates. The PSL Goalkeeper of the Season conceded only 12 goals and recorded 21 clean sheets across 30 league appearances, propelling the Buccaneers to their first league championship in 14 years.

The landmark win in North Africa provides South Africa with valuable momentum and ranking points ahead of the upcoming international break from November 9 to 17.

Bafana Bafana will return to competitive action with a critical 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Kenya’s Harambee Stars.