Johannesburg – United States football club Chicago Fire FC has announced the signing of promising centre back Mbekezeli Mbokazi from Orlando Pirates.
The sturdy Bafana Bafana defender from Hluhluwe, South Africa, on Tuesday, 2 December 2025, signed to join the American club on a four-year contract.
Mbokazi joins through 2029 with a club option for 2030, taking a U-22 Initiative slot to strengthen the back line for the 2026 MLS season.
Coach Gregg Berhalter highlighted Mbokazi’s leadership and international experience, including his Bafana Bafana debut in a May 2025 win over Mozambique and over 35 pro appearances with Pirates.
Mbokazi will play one final match for Pirates in Saturday’s Carling Knockout final before heading to the United States.
Welcome to Chicago, TLB!
We have acquired defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi from Orlando Pirates of South Africa’s Betway Premiership. #cf97 pic.twitter.com/ZXPd1SwlWo
— Chicago Fire FC (@ChicagoFire) December 2, 2025
A message from our newest teammate
#cf97 pic.twitter.com/yejaRcOkJo
— Chicago Fire FC (@ChicagoFire) December 2, 2025
𝐌𝐛𝐨𝐤𝐚𝐳𝐢 𝐭𝐨 𝐉𝐨𝐢𝐧 @ChicagoFire
— Orlando Pirates (@orlandopirates) December 2, 2025
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The post Tough Bafana Defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi Leaves Pirates For US Chicago Fire FC appeared first on The Bulrushes.
