Williams salivating over PSG meeting for Downs
Ronwen Williams can already see Paris Saint-Germain on the horizon. But first, Mamelodi Sundowns have to survive Saturday.
The Sundowns captain says the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final against the European champions is the “ultimate goal.”
The problem is the path: two knockout rounds, starting with Asian champions Al-Ahli at Loftus Stadium this Saturday at 3pm.
PSG already have a bye to the final. Sundowns earned their spot by winning the CAF Champions League.
Al-Ahli got here by beating Auckland FC 1-0. Winner of Saturday’s African–Asian–Pacific Cup goes on to face the Americas winner later in the year. Win that, and PSG wait.
Williams is not sugar-coating it. “It will be an open game and the winner takes all.
“It will be African Champions versus the Asian Champions,” he said.
“That’s the pathway to playing the UEFA Champions League winners which is Paris Saint-Germain… but the first step now is against Al-Ahli and we’re excited.”
He also issued a warning to his teammates. At this level, chances are rare. Miss them and you go home.
“At the World Cup, Club World Cup and CAF Champions League, you’re not going to get too many chances. You need to make sure that the chance you get, you bury.”
Al-Ahli’s attack is the reason. Williams named Ivan Toney and Francisco Trincão as players who “will punish you” if given space.
He also expects the Saudis to target Teboho Mokoena after their media started asking about the midfielder’s goals on the biggest stages.
Sundowns know the occasion. They played at last year’s Club World Cup. Williams says he is already getting goosebumps thinking about what is at stake: three wins from being crowned the world’s top club.
Saturday is not a dress rehearsal. It is the door. Al-Ahli stand in front of it. PSG sit on the other side.
