South Africa defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi counts on MLS experience ahead of 2026 World Cup

Former Orlando Pirates defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi believes his move to Major League Soccer with Chicago Fire has already become an important step in his career and could play a crucial role in helping South Africa at the upcoming FIFA World Cup.

The South African defender, who completed his transfer to the MLS side in November last year, says the level of football, intensity, and tactical demands in the United States have significantly improved his game and prepared him for the biggest stage in international football.

Mbokazi is widely expected to be included in coach Hugo Broos’ final Bafana Bafana squad for the global tournament, with the Belgian tactician set to announce his selection tomorrow ahead of South Africa’s participation in the competition next month.

Speaking in an interview with On Tap Sports Net, the defender expressed excitement about the possibility of representing his country at the World Cup and emphasized the importance of unity within the national team camp.

“I’m happy to be in the World Cup and to play with the team,” Mbokazi said.

“I think what’s going to help us as Bafana Bafana is that there is unity in the team and we help each other. As this is a big tournament, we are just looking forward to using whatever experience – I’m going to use my experience that I have gained here in MLS to help Bafana Bafana and bring whatever expertise I’ve gained in these couple of weeks.”

The defender’s comments reflect the growing confidence within the South African camp as the nation prepares for its return to football’s biggest tournament. Bafana Bafana will head into the competition hoping to make a strong impression against some of the world’s best teams, with squad harmony and tactical discipline expected to be key factors in their campaign.

For Mbokazi, the move abroad has already exposed him to a different football environment compared to what he previously experienced in the Betway Premiership. The defender admitted that adapting to life and football in the United States was initially challenging, particularly due to the differences in playing style and the physical demands of the MLS.

“In the beginning, the preseason was very hard,” Mbokazi explained.

“I found that the style of play in South Africa is different from the style of play here in the U.S., but the experience I have gained here is very beneficial. I’m going to use that to help me in the World Cup.”

The defender’s rapid adjustment to the MLS environment is viewed as an encouraging development for both club and country. Since arriving in America, Mbokazi has been exposed to faster-paced football, greater athletic intensity, and a more physically demanding game — qualities that could prove vital when facing elite international opposition at the World Cup.

His journey also highlights the increasing trend of South African players seeking opportunities abroad in order to develop their careers and gain exposure to higher levels of competition. For Bafana Bafana, having players competing in diverse football environments is expected to strengthen the overall quality and experience within the squad.

South Africa’s World Cup campaign will begin with a highly anticipated clash against co-hosts Mexico national football team on June 11, a fixture that is already generating excitement among supporters.

The opening match is expected to provide an early test of Bafana Bafana’s readiness, with Hugo Broos likely to rely on a blend of experienced internationals and emerging talents such as Mbokazi to compete on the world stage.

As anticipation builds ahead of the squad announcement, Mbokazi remains focused on making a meaningful contribution both on and off the field. The defender believes the lessons learned in the MLS could help him elevate his performances for South Africa and assist the national team in navigating the pressures of the tournament.

With confidence growing and preparations intensifying, the Chicago Fire defender is determined to ensure his overseas experience becomes an important asset for Bafana Bafana as they prepare to chase World Cup success.