As Mbekezeli “TLB” Mbokazi prepares to begin his American dream, he has received a massive vote of confidence from a man who knows both the Soweto Derby and Major League Soccer (MLS) intimately. Diphetogo “Dipsy” Selolwane, the former SuperSport United star and legendary “Kaizer Chiefs slayer,” has backed the young defender to become a standout performer for Chicago Fire.
Mbokazi’s move to the United States comes after a meteoric rise at Orlando Pirates, where he spent just 10 months before catching the eye of international scouts.
The Blueprint for Success in Chicago
Selolwane, who donned the Chicago Fire jersey between 2002 and 2005, warned the 20-year-old that the MLS is a different beast compared to the Betway Premiership.
- Physicality is Key: Selolwane noted that the US league is defined by its athleticism. “MLS is a very physical league. They are strong in tackles and strong in headers,” Dipsy told Soccer Beat.
- Ready for the Step Up: Despite the challenge, the former Botswana international believes Mbokazi’s time battling Africa’s elite with the Buccaneers has prepared him. “If you look at what he’s been doing… it tells you he’s at that level.”
- A Stepping Stone: Selolwane predicts that Chicago is just the beginning for the Bafana Bafana prospect, suggesting that a move to an even bigger global club is on the horizon if he maintains his current trajectory.
The Countdown to Debut
While the transfer is finalized, Mbokazi and his fans will have to be patient. The MLS off-season means the young defender has a month of intensive pre-season training ahead of him.
- First Fixture: Chicago Fire vs. Houston Dynamo
- Date: 22 February 2026
- The Mission: Establish himself as a regular starter in the Fire’s backline before the MLS spring surge.
