Puso Dithejane catching the eye in MLS ahead of Pitso Mosimane's Bafana Bafana era

Puso Dithejane is quickly gaining attention in Major League Soccer (MLS) ahead of South Africa's national team coach Pitso Mosimane's new era with Bafana Bafana. The 20-year-old South African winger showcased his attacking prowess by scoring a brace in Chicago Fire FC's 2-1 victory over Liga MX champions Cruz Azul. This win secured the Fire's spot in the Leagues Cup quarter-finals, where they remain the highest-ranked MLS club entering the knockout stage.

Dithejane's stellar performance earned him the highest expected goals (xG) figure among players from both sides, despite only managing three shots on target. His two goals included the match-winning strike, demonstrating his value to the MLS club. This success in Chicago provides Dithejane with a crucial platform to establish himself in American football while continuing his development away from South Africa.

His progress is closely watched back home, as the number of South African players seeking overseas opportunities grows. The emergence of Dithejane aligns with an important moment for South African football, as Bafana Bafana navigates a new era under Mosimane following Hugo Broos' departure. While still early in his international career, Dithejane's consistent performances abroad could eventually see him considered for the senior national team.

For now, his focus remains on building his reputation in Chicago, with his two-goal display against Cruz Azul ensuring his name is increasingly difficult to overlook in MLS.