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Sports

Nigerian-Born Ime Okon Named In South Africa Squad Amid Rising Tensions Over Foreigners

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Nigerian-born defender Ime Okon has been included in South Africa’s 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers amid growing tensions between Nigerians and some South Africans over issues linked to immigration and jobs.

Some South Africans have accused foreigners of being in the country illegally, taking jobs meant for locals and being involved in crimes, especially drug trafficking. Anti-immigrant groups have also reportedly stopped people outside hospitals and schools to demand identification documents, while foreign-owned businesses were advised to close during a recent protest in Pretoria over fears of violence.

Despite the tension, 22-year-old Okon, who was born to a Nigerian father and South African mother, continues to represent Bafana Bafana. The Hannover 96 defender has already made five appearances for South Africa.

  • Lionel Messi has broken another major record, showing once again why he is one of the greatest footballers of all time — even at 38 years old.Lionel Messi has broken another major record, showing once again why he is one of the greatest footballers of all time — even at 38 years old.

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Okon is expected to make his first appearance at a major tournament after missing out on the squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

South Africa coach Hugo Broos also invited new players Olwethu Makhanya and Bradley Cross as part of his final squad for the qualifiers.

Nineteen of the selected players currently play in the South African league.

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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).

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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).

South Africa have played at three FIFA World Cups in the past, making appearances in 1998, 2002 and 2010, but failed to progress beyond the group stage on each occasion.

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Sports

Alvin Kamara drops questionable post about building new relationships amid unclear Saints future

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The future of New Orleans Saints star running back Alvin Kamara continues to be one of the most intriguing NFL storylines this offseason. With a hefty salary cap hit and the team bringing in Travis Etienne Jr., the Saints are weighing options around Kamara ahead of next season.

A social media post from the veteran on Friday added more fuel to the speculation. Kamara shared a post that centered on the importance of building new relationships and connections on X, and it immediately caught the attention of Saints fans, who are monitoring his situation.

“Haven’t had time for anybody outside of my circle lately. Building…,” Kamara wrote.

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While the message was vague and didn’t make a direct reference to football and his uncertain future with the Saints, many interpreted it as potentially significant. This is given the ongoing questions about whether Alvin Kamara will remain in New Orleans in the upcoming season.

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Although the veteran running back remains under contract with the Saints, the franchise has openly acknowledged that his long-term fit with the organization is still being evaluated. It is noteworthy that the team is navigating salary cap challenges and potential roster transition.

The timing of Alvin Kamara’s post has, however, left many guessing what could be going on behind the scenes regarding his future. His absence from the Saints’ OTAs this week has further ignited the rumors around him, but he’s expected to show up for the mandatory minicamp.

Analyst explores how Alvin Kamara’s return will impact the Saints’ depth chart

With the Saints yet to make a move on the future of Alvin Kamara, it looks like the running back will be on the team’s 53-man roster for the 2026 season. Saints Wire’s John Sigler explores how the veteran’s return will impact the team’s running back depth chart this fall.

“We know that Etienne and Kamara are safe (barring a hiccup in contract talks that leads to Kamara being traded),” Sigler wrote. “That leaves two spots for five players, with the likeliest candidates looking like Miller, Neal, and Estime.

“That’s not to say Chandler and Donaldson don’t have a chance, but there’s less invested in those guys than their competition, or at least not enough to give them an edge. They have a steeper hill to climb.”

It remains to be seen how much Kamara will be involved in the Saints’ run game next season with the presence of Travis Etienne. He appeared in just 11 games last season, recording a career-low 471 rushing yards and a touchdown. Nonetheless, his legacy at the franchise speaks for itself.

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