Revealed: Why Chicago Fire gambled with Mbokazi & Dithejane signings

In the last couple of weeks, Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire have signed two South Africa internationals; Mbekezeli Mbokazi who was playing for Orlando Pirates and Puso Dithejane from TS Galaxy.

It was a bold move for the MLS outfit since the two players are establishing themselves in top football. Dithejane, who made the provisional Bafana Bafana’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) squad, has been been playing for the Rockets since 2023/24 when he unceremoniously left Kaizer Chiefs.

Mbokazi was introduced to the Premier Soccer League just in March 2025 by the then Bucs coach Jose Riveiro. The now 20-year-old has established himself with South Africa owing to his displays regardless of the opponent he is facing.

Chicago Fire FC coach Gregg Berhalter is adamant Mbokazi has proven he can deal with any top player. He further explained how the duo will work together in the MLS.

Chicago Fire explain the duo’s signing

[Mbekezeli Mbokazi] is a player that has high potential, he’s shown that he can deal with some top players and play at the highest stage,” he opened up to the media.

“And now for us it’s about get him prepared, used to the league, adapt to the league and get him prepared for the World Cup. There’s two things, the first is, we want to bring talented players who can help the squad into this club.

“Secondly, we think it’s beneficial for them to have each other and to work in pairs. It’s gonna be a huge transition for both players and it’s comforting they’ll have from their home country to help them adapt,” he conclued.

Both players hope a move to the United States will boost their chances of making the Bafana Bafana squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.