Bafana Bafana defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi has taken another important step in his recovery after completing the full 90 minutes in Chicago Fire’s 3-1 victory over Vancouver Whitecaps.
Mbokazi was named in the starting XI as Chicago secured another valuable three points at home, moving up to fourth place in the MLS standings with 45 points from 27 matches.
The full appearance represents a significant milestone for the defender, who is gradually returning to his best after a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Mbokazi builds up his fitness
The match was Mbokazi’s first full 90-minute appearance since returning from the serious thigh injury he suffered during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The injury required surgery in Finland and threatened to bring his season to an early end.
Mbokazi had already provided encouraging signs of progress last week when he played 80 minutes in Chicago Fire’s 1-0 victory over Charlotte.
The club’s coaching staff had initially taken a cautious approach to his comeback, but his latest 90-minute outing suggests the defender is becoming increasingly comfortable with the demands of competitive football again.
Chicago coach Gregg Berhalter had previously suggested that Mbokazi could miss the remainder of the campaign before later revising that assessment.
Boost for Bafana Bafana
Mbokazi’s return is also welcome news for Bafana Bafana head coach Pitso Mosimane, with South Africa preparing for important 2027 AFCON qualifying matches against Kenya in November.
Regular playing time will be crucial for the defender as he works his way back to full sharpness and looks to remain part of Mosimane’s plans.
Mbokazi’s availability could provide Bafana with another important defensive option for the back-to-back qualifiers.
Dithejane also features
Mbokazi was not the only South African involved in Chicago’s win.
Puso Dithejane also made an appearance after returning from international duty with Bafana Bafana.
The midfielder came off the bench in the 76th minute, with Chicago holding a 2-1 advantage at the time.
Dithejane had enjoyed a memorable international break after scoring on his Bafana debut in the 1-0 victory over Egypt.
With both South Africans now featuring for Chicago Fire, their return to club action provides another positive development ahead of South Africa’s upcoming AFCON qualifiers.
