Dithejane adds to TS Galaxy’s growing record of producing Bafana Bafana players

Chicago Fire forward Puso Dithejane has become the latest former TS Galaxy player to attract international recognition after being included in Pitso Mosimane’s preliminary Bafana Bafana squad.

The 22-year-old is among a group of young players being considered by Mosimane, who has returned as South Africa’s head coach. Dithejane, born in North West, could now emerge as part of the next generation of national-team players.

His move to Chicago Fire in January 2026 did not bring immediate first-team opportunities. He joined from TS Galaxy alongside Mbekezeli Mbokazi, who moved from Orlando Pirates, but initially had to wait for regular minutes.

Dithejane featured mainly in cup matches and was occasionally sent to Chicago Fire’s reserve side in MLS Next Pro to maintain his fitness and playing rhythm.

His situation has changed significantly since Major League Soccer resumed following the 2026 FIFA World Cup break. On current form, and after receiving the club’s Player of the Month award, Dithejane has established himself as Chicago Fire’s leading attacking player.

That achievement is particularly notable in a squad which also includes former Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski.

Galaxy’s pathway to international football

TS Galaxy have built a reputation for identifying players who later become prominent names in South African football.

Lebone Seema, who has received his first Bafana Bafana preliminary call-up, and current Orlando Pirates team-mate Kamogelo Sebelebele were both 20 when they were given opportunities by The Rockets during the 2022/23 season.

Khulumani Ndamane followed a similar route to Dithejane, leaving the Kaizer Chiefs reserves to gain experience in the Premier Soccer League. Within two seasons, he had earned Bafana Bafana recognition and secured a major move to Mamelodi Sundowns.

TS Galaxy chairman Tim Sukazi said Dithejane’s selection reinforced the club’s ambition to contribute players to the senior national team.

“Puso making it into the Bafana Bafana squad further justifies our wish to see TS Galaxy contributing to our senior national team,” Sukazi told KickOff.

“We are happy and proud of him and have no doubt that he will have an (impact) at an international level.”

Other players scouted by The Rockets who later represented Bafana Bafana include Bathusi Aubaas, Terrence Mashego, Ethan Brooks and Samukele Kabini. Kabini was part of South Africa’s squad at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Dithejane has yet to make his senior international debut and is still waiting for his first cap for South Africa.