Ime Okon, a 22-year-old defender born in Nigeria, has been named in South Africa's 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Okon, who represents Bundesliga side Hannover 96, holds dual heritage — a Nigerian father and a South African mother.

The selection marks a significant milestone for Okon, who has earned five caps for Bafana Bafana but has never appeared at a major international tournament. He missed out on a place in South Africa's squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, making this his first call-up to a World Cup.

New faces in the squad

Head coach Hugo Broos also handed first international call-ups to two uncapped players: Olwethu Makhanya of Philadelphia Union and Bradley Cross of Kaizer Chiefs. Their inclusion adds fresh depth to a squad with familiar names throughout.

Nineteen of the 26 selected players earn their club football in the South African league, underlining the domestic game's central role in Broos's plans.

South Africa's World Cup history

Bafana Bafana have featured at three previous World Cup finals. They made their debut in 1998, returned in 2002, and famously hosted the tournament on home soil in 2010 — becoming the first African nation to do so. On each occasion, however, they were eliminated in the group stage.

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)