Berhalter Praises Mbokazi’s Potential & Experience Level

Chicago Fire coach Gregg Berhalter praises new signing Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s potential, highlighting his experience against top players and plans to get him prepared for the league and the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The 20-year-old joined the Major League Soccer team from Orlando Pirates in December 2025, but had to wait until the conclusion of the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco to join his new team.

Mbokazi is a product of the Pirates’ academy and made his name in the DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) before shining in the first team of the Buccaneers.

Before being promoted to the first team, Mbokazi was shining in the DDC and even helped Amajita win the 2024 COSAFA Cup and helped them qualify for the U20 2025 AFCON in Morocco, although he was unfortunately not part of the team due to Pirates not releasing him.

In March 2025, Mbokazi made his debut for Pirates’ first team, and since then, he’s been South Africa’s favorite player and even made his debut for the national team in June 2025 against Mozambique.

The Hluhluwe-born young defender recently helped the Buccaneers win the MTN8 and Carling Knockout as a young captain.

“You know, he’s a player that has high potential,” Berhalter said.

“He has already shown that he can deal with some top players and has played at the highest stage.

“Now for us it’s about to get him prepared, used to the league, adapted to the league, and then get him prepared for the World Cup.”

Mbokazi will be playing with another South African player in Chicago Fire, as the club acquired another young South African talent, Puso Dithejane, from TS Galaxy this week.

With Berhalter’s guidance, Mbokazi is expected to make a significant impact in the MLS and help the team achieve success in the league and beyond.