Dithejane’s Chicago Fire form strengthens case for Bafana Bafana call-up

South African winger Puso Dithejane has been backed to earn a Bafana Bafana call-up after a remarkable run of form for Chicago Fire in Major League Soccer.

The former TS Galaxy player has emerged as one of the most prominent South African footballers abroad since the MLS season resumed following the 2026 FIFA World Cup break. Increased playing time since his move to Chicago in January has given the 22-year-old the opportunity to make a significant impact.

Dithejane’s upturn began in late July, when he came off the bench and scored in Chicago Fire’s 3-2 defeat by Inter Miami. He followed that performance by producing two goals in a historic 2-1 victory over Liga MX champions Cruz Azul in the League Cup.

The win against Cruz Azul is regarded as one of the biggest results in Chicago Fire’s history.

The Christiana-born attacker was also on target in the MLS recently, opening the scoring during a 2-1 victory over Orlando City. Former Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski scored the winning goal in that match.

That result extended Chicago Fire’s run to six successive victories in all competitions, their longest winning streak since 1998.

Alex Calabrese, a Chicago-based reporter and Editor-in-Chief of MenInRed97.com, believes Dithejane’s performances have earned him serious consideration from the South African national team selectors. He also feels the winger could benefit from a change in direction following Hugo Broos’ departure.

“I would say that this would definitely be a good moment for him, obviously after the World Cup there could be a lot of players coming in and I think it’s a good moment for him to get that luck, he is playing well for The Fire,” Calabrese told KickOff.

Calabrese admitted he was not fully aware of every South African player competing with Dithejane for a place in the national team, but said the Chicago Fire winger had done enough to deserve an opportunity.

“I don’t necessarily know every South African he is competing against but what I can say is that from my standpoint he has done enough to get a call-up or at least a look-in, especially if they are going to try out new players after the World Cup,” he added.

South Africa have yet to announce their new Bafana Bafana head coach. The appointment comes with the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers due to begin next month.

Dithejane’s recent performances have therefore arrived at an important moment for the national team. His ability to score in key matches, contribute to Chicago Fire’s winning run and adapt to a larger role since joining the MLS club has placed him firmly in contention for recognition.

If he can maintain that level, the next Bafana Bafana coach may have little choice but to assess the in-form winger when selecting the squad for the new era.