Bafana Bafana have a long history of giving a platform to rising young
defenders, with Aaron Mokoena, Rivaldo Coetzee, and Mbulelo Mabizela all
making their debuts for the national team at a young age.
Now, SuperSport United defender Ime Okon is the latest youngster looking
to make an impact on the international stage.
Okon was selected in the senior national team preliminary squad after
just two games for his club this season, but did not make the final 23-man
squad for friendlies against Namibia and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The 21-year-old has declared his allegiance to both South Africa and
Nigeria, with his father being from the latter country.
“I just don’t want any pressure, but I just keep my mind open to both and
whatever comes first then we’ll see what happens because it’s quite a
tough decision for me. South Africa is a country I was born and bred in,
but Nigeria is my home where my dad is from,” he said.
Okon has played seven out of eight league matches for SuperSport and
competes for a starting berth with Bafana vice captain Siyanda Xulu in the
heart of Matsatsantsa’s defence in competition to partner with former
Bafana captain Thulani Hlatshwayo.
The young defender is hoping for a call up from either side, but in the
meantime, he is focused on continuing to develop his skills and prove
himself at club level.
With the talent he has already shown, it won’t be long before he is
representing his country on the international stage.
