AFCON 2025
Nigerian-born defender Ime Okon has been named in South Africa’s 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Okon, who was born to a Nigerian father and South African mother, currently plays for German Bundesliga 2 side Hannover 96 and has already made five appearances for Bafana Bafana.
The 22-year-old is set to make his debut at a major international tournament after missing out on South Africa’s squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
South Africa head coach Hugo Broos also handed call-ups to Olwethu Makhanya and Bradley Cross as part of his final squad for the tournament.
A total of 19 players in the squad currently play in the South African league, with Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates providing the bulk of the players.
Captain Ronwen Williams headlines the goalkeeping department alongside Ricardo Goss and Sipho Chaine.
In defence, Okon joins the likes of Khuliso Mudau, Aubrey Modiba, Olwethu Makhanya, Bradley Cross and Samukele Kabini.
The midfield will be led by Teboho Mokoena, Jayden Adams and Thalente Mbatha, while Burnley striker Lyle Foster, Relebohile Mofokeng and Evidence Makgopa are among the attacking options.
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).
