That feeling was amplified on Friday when the iconic World Cup trophy arrived on South African soil and was formally presented to President Cyril Ramaphosa at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.

The visit formed part of the Coca-Cola Fifa World Cup Trophy Tour and served as a powerful reminder of what awaits Bafana later this year.

South Africa are set to feature in the opening match of the tournament against hosts Mexico in Mexico City on June 11, a moment Williams describes as a lifelong dream.

With the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) now behind them, the Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper says the shift in focus has been unmistakable.

"It's finally sinking in. There have been a lot of things in between, but now that AFCON is out of the way and after receiving a message from the President, you can feel how close it is," said the skipper.

Ramaphosa used the occasion to publicly back the national team, expressing confidence that they could return with the trophy — words that added both inspiration and responsibility.

While Bafana's AFCON campaign in Morocco ended earlier than hoped with a last-16 exit to Cameroon, Williams believes the disappointment has highlighted an area that must improve ahead of the World Cup.

"When you look at South African football at major tournaments, it always comes down to efficiency," he said.

"We create chances, but we don't always take them. At this level, one chance can decide everything."

Drawing parallels with Sundowns' recent Club World Cup experience, Williams stressed that Bafana must be more clinical if they are to compete with the world's elite.

"We've had setbacks, but if we learn from them, they can push us to something greater," he added.

Gareth Bale 'gutted' by Wales' World Cup defeat to Iran