Nigerian-born defender Ime Okon has been included in South Africa’s 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Okon, who currently plays for Bundesliga club Hannover 96 was born to a Nigerian father, and South African mother.
The 22-year-old has earned five caps for the former African champions.
Okon Ready For Tournament Debut
Okon be making his first appearance for South Africa at a major tournament after missing out on the squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Head coach Hugo Broos handed call-ups to two new players, Olwethu Makhanya and Bradley Cross.
Nineteen of the 26 players ply their trade in the South African league.
Read Also:AFCON 2025: Nigerian-Born Defender Named In South Africa’s Preliminary Squad
South Africa have appeared in three previous World Cup finals having debuted in 1998. They qualified again in 2002 and hosting the tournament in 2010. They exited in the group stages on each occasion.
South Africa Full Squad
Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams (Mamelodi Sundowns), Ricardo Goss (Siwelele), Sipho Chaine (Orlando Pirates)
Defenders: Khuliso Mudau, Aubrey Modiba, Khulumani Ndamane (all Mamelodi Sundowns), Olwethu Makhanya (Philadelphia Union, USA), Bradley Cross (Kaizer Chiefs), Thabang Matuludi (Polokwane City), Nkosinathi Sibisi, Kamogelo Sebelebele (both Orlando Pirates), Ime Okon (Hannover 96, Germany), Samukele Kabini (Molde FK, Norway), Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Chicago Fire, USA)
Midfielders: Teboho Mokoena, Jayden Adams (both Mamelodi Sundowns), Thalente Mbatha (Orlando Pirates), Sphephelo Sithole (Tondela, Portugal)
Forwards: Oswin Appollis, Tshepang Moremi, Evidence Makgopa, Relebohile Mofokeng (all Orlando Pirates), Lyle Foster (Burnley, England), Iqraam Rayners, Themba Zwane (both Mamelodi Sundowns), Thapelo Maseko (AEL Limassol, Cyprus)
By Adeboye Amosu
