Puso Dithejane scores as Chicago Fire extend winning run against Orlando City

Puso Dithejane scored in his second start of the Major League Soccer season as Chicago Fire beat Orlando City 2-1 on Thursday morning, with Robert Lewandowski’s penalty securing a sixth consecutive victory for the club in all competitions.

The South African winger put Chicago Fire ahead after four minutes, opening the scoring against Orlando City and continuing an impressive run of form since the season resumed following the World Cup in North America.

David Brekalo brought Orlando City level in the 52nd minute, but Lewandowski restored the Fire’s advantage from the penalty spot 17 minutes later. The result ensured Chicago Fire claimed all three points and maintained their momentum.

For Dithejane, the goal was his second in MLS in 13 appearances. His first came as a substitute against Inter Miami late last month, meaning he has now scored in both of his league starts this season.

The former TS Galaxy attacker has made a particularly strong impact in recent matches. His goal against Orlando City was his third in three games, following a brace in Chicago Fire’s 2-1 victory over Club Necaxa in the Leagues Cup group stage earlier this month.

“Personally, I have to say that it’s very special,” said Dithejane of his first league goal in his second start of the season. “I am working hard in training. I want to score goals, and make the team win.”

Dithejane also credited Lewandowski, the experienced striker who has helped him improve his finishing and decision-making in attacking positions since arriving at the club.

“For me, he has been helping me with finishing, getting into spaces, and how to relax when I get into the box,” Dithejane explained. “That’s how we learn from legends.”

The 20-year-old’s development has placed further attention on another young South African making an impression outside his home country. His performances have also contributed to Chicago Fire’s recent surge, with the team now having won six matches in a row across all competitions.

Dithejane said the atmosphere within the squad was positive, but stressed that the players were focused on maintaining their standards with a demanding schedule ahead.

“We have told ourselves that we have a lot of games coming. We have to tell ourselves that we have to win those games, and that’s all in the mind,” Dithejane said. “Our mentality has to be right, and go on to win.”

Chicago Fire’s latest victory was shaped by the early breakthrough from Dithejane and the decisive penalty from Lewandowski, while the South African’s growing influence has added another attacking threat to the side as their run of form continues.