Hannover's center-back Ime Okon could feature in the opening match of this summer's World Cup. | OneFootball

Ime Okon is named by Hugo Broos as one of the only five Europe-based players in South Africa's World Cup squad. The 22-year-old center-back came off his debut season in Germany with Hannover as they missed out on the promotion playoff spot on the final matchday of the 2. Bundesliga campaign.

Okon also made his international debut at the start of the season after completing his big move from SuperSport United. Both Ime and his younger brother Udeme, who won bronze in last year's World Athletics Championships in 4x400 rally, represent South Africa on the global stage.

As expected, players from African champions Sundowns and domestic league winners Orlando Pirates dominated the Belgian coach's 26-man list. Broos initially named 32 players in the preliminary squad announced last week.

South Africa returned to the World Cup for the first time since their home tournament in 2010. They finished top of their qualification group ahead of the country of Okon's father, Nigeria. Similar to the 2010 World Cup, they will play against Mexico in the opening fixture of this summer's spectacle. Czech Republic and South Korea complete the set in Group A.

Full South Africa squad for the 2026 World Cup:

Goalkeepers: Sipho Chaine (Orlando Pirates), Ricardo Goss (Siwelele), Ronwen Williams (Mamelodi Sundowns)

Defenders: Aubrey Modiba, Khuliso Mudau, Khulumani Ndamane (Sundowns), Kamogelo Sebelebele, Nkosinathi Sibisi (Pirates), Bradley Cross (Kaizer Chiefs), Samukele Kabini (Molde), Olwethu Makhanya (Philadelphia Union), Thabang Matuludi (Polokwane City), Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Chicago Fire), Ime Okon (Hannover)

Midfielders: Oswin Appollis, Thalente Mbatha, Relebohile Mofokeng (Pirates), Jayden Adams, Teboho Mokoena, Themba Zwane (Sundowns), Sphephelo Sithole (Tondela)

Forwards: Evidence Makgopa, Tshepang Moremi (Pirates), Lyle Foster (Burnley), Thapelo Maseko (AEL Limassol), Iqraam Rayners (Sundowns)