Mamelodi Sundowns' Ronwen Williams will be hoping to build on his CAF Champions League success with Bafana Bafana at the World Cup, and will be key to SA's hopes of going deep into the tournament in North America.
Goalkeepers often receive the least attention until the biggest moments arrive. A spectacular save, penalty shoot-out heroics or a commanding display under pressure can be the difference between a nation celebrating glory and heading home in disappointment.
As the world's best teams prepare to battle for football's ultimate prize, a number of elite shot-stoppers will carry the hopes of their countries on their shoulders. From World Cup winners and Champions League stars to African trailblazers capable of inspiring another historic run, these are eight goalkeepers worth keeping an eye on at the 2026 Fifa World Cup in the US, Canada and Mexico.
The reigning World Cup Golden Glove winner has become one of football's ultimate big-match performers. Martínez played a decisive role in Argentina's triumph in Qatar and has built a reputation for delivering when the stakes are highest, particularly in penalty shoot-outs. Fiercely competitive and rarely overawed by the occasion, the Astion Villa shot-stopper will once again be central to Argentina's hopes of defending their title. The world will also be watching to see if he pulls off any more outlandish celebrations.
