Ime Okon Chooses South Africa Over Nigeria
SuperSport United's Ime Okon has expressed his deep desire to represent the South African national team, Bafana Bafana, despite being eligible to play for both South Africa and Nigeria, Nigeriasoccernet.com can report.
Born to a Nigerian father and a South African mother, Okon considers South Africa his true home. In an interview with iDiski Times, the 20-year-old explained that although he feels a strong connection to his Nigerian heritage, his loyalty lies with South Africa, where he was raised and has always dreamed of playing for the national team.
“The whole Nigerian thing, I have Nigerian family, I speak to those from Nigeria, and they also say even if people pressurise me, I must make a choice that I must be happy with.
"I grew up here, everything I know is South African. For them, they wouldn’t be touched if I played for Bafana. South Africa is all I know. I can barely speak the native Nigerian language, but I know my roots.
"I’m pretty much South African, but I am also proudly Nigerian as much as I am proudly South African. But playing for Bafana, it’s been a dream, it’s a big thing, my mom always said, ‘one day Bafana Bafana!’ You know? So, it’s been a big thing for my family, growing up to be in a Bafana jersey would be great.”
Okon's impressive performances at club level have made him a key figure in SuperSport United's defense, where his height (1.87 m) and tactical awareness stand out. He has also made strides in his international career, with his performances garnering attention from the national team.
Oluwayemi Omolagba
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