Mamelodi Sundowns shot-stopper Ronwen Williams has made history at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup by becoming the first African goalkeeper penalized under FIFA’s new 8-second rule for goalkeepers.
During one of Sundowns’ matches at the tournament, Williams held onto the ball beyond the newly enforced 8-second limit, resulting in a corner kick for the opposition ; a shift from the traditional indirect free kick.
The rule, currently on trial at the Club World Cup, is part of FIFA’s broader efforts to reduce time-wasting and keep the game flowing.
Goalkeepers are now required to release the ball within eight seconds of gaining possession, with referees instructed to strictly enforce the change.
The moment caught fans and commentators off guard, highlighting how the evolving rules are already impacting high-level matches.
Williams, known for his calm demeanor, took the decision in stride, but the incident has sparked discussions about how goalkeepers will adapt going forward.
As the first African goalkeeper flagged under the new regulation, Williams’ moment is a landmark in FIFA’s modernisation efforts ; and a sign of things to come.
