Okon Relishes First Bafana Call-Up Under Broos
Bafana Bafana defender Ime Okon has expressed his excitement after earning his first senior national team call-up under coach Hugo Broos, describing the moment as a dream come true after years of hard work and perseverance.
The 22-year-old centre-back, who previously featured for South Africa in the COSAFA Cup squad led by Vela Khumalo, is now set to take a major step in his international career.
During that tournament, Okon made five appearances and scored one goal, showing early promise on the international stage.
Speaking on his latest call-up, Okon shared his joy and relief after overcoming earlier setbacks that had prevented him from being part of the national setup.
“I am very excited to be here and be amongst the guys because I had problems before, which forced me not to be here,” he said.
“But now I’m just happy to be here, and I’m really looking forward to the training sessions in the next few days.”
This call-up marks Okon’s first opportunity to work under Broos, who has been instrumental in shaping the current Bafana squad as they build towards the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Okon will be hoping to make his debut under the Belgian mentor when South Africa takes on Panama in an international friendly in Durban on Friday.
The two nations are scheduled to meet again in Cape Town on Tuesday as part of their preparations.
Okon’s journey has been one of steady growth, having developed through the ranks at SuperSport United before making a move abroad. The defender emphasized that his work ethic has remained consistent throughout his career.
The former SuperSport United defender also added that since he was at SuperSport, he was working hard and hoping that day would come.
“Since I’ve been at SuperSport, I have been working hard because this is where I have been dreaming of being,” he added.
“So, I think everything can happen in life, and you just need to work hard and believe that you will achieve what you want to achieve. It was just my dream to be here, and it is just a special moment now.”
Now plying his trade in Germany with Hannover 96 in the Bundesliga 2, Okon has continued to impress, scoring two goals in 18 league appearances this season. His performances abroad have clearly not gone unnoticed, earning him a well-deserved opportunity on the international stage.
