Nigeria-Born Defender Makes South Africa’s 2026 World Cup Squad

Nigerian-born defender Ime Okon has been named 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 a South African mother.

The 22‑year‑old has earned five caps for the former African champions.

Okon Ready For Tournament Debut

Okon will make 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 added two new players, Olwethu Makhanya and Bradley Cross, to the roster.

Nineteen of the 26 players are based in the South African league.

South Africa has appeared in three previous World Cup finals, debuting in 1998, qualifying again in 2002, and hosting the tournament in 2010. They were eliminated 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)