Chicago Fire FC head coach Gregg Berhalter has reacted to Puso Dithejane’s sensational two-goal performance against Cruz Azul, declaring that the attacker’s heroics are a direct manifestation of the quality he displays every day in training.
Dithejane struck twice as Chicago Fire secured their place in the Leagues Cup knockout stage with a statement 2-1 victory over Liga MX powerhouses Cruz Azul at SeatGeek Stadium on Thursday.
The win ensured Chicago advanced as the only MLS club to win all three Phase One matches outright, cementing their status as top contenders in the competition.
The former TS Galaxy star lined up in an attacking unit alongside high-profile teammates Robert Lewandowski and Philip Zinckernagel. The 22-year-old fully rewarded Berhalter’s trust, delivering a decisive second-half performance to seal the victory.
Dithejane opened the scoring in the 67th minute to break the deadlock. Although Cruz Azul equalised in the 81st minute through striker Nico Ibáñez—leaving the match seemingly destined for a penalty shootout—Dithejane stepped up to settle the outcome.
GREGG BERHALTER HAILS PUSO DITHEJANE’S IMPACT
In the 93rd minute, the former South African youth international tapped home at the far post to clinch the 2-1 win and secure Chicago’s top seed.
The performance marked Dithejane’s first brace since joining the club, leaving Berhalter delighted with the winger’s growth and execution under pressure.
“We see it every day in training; we see what he does,” Berhalter said after the match. “When we came back from the [2026 FIFA] World Cup break, we had a chance to go home, we played a couple of friendly games, and in training, every day he’s scoring goals.
“He’s a dynamic player who gets into good spots. He still needs to develop and has a long way to go, but there’s a ton of potential in him, and I’m happy for him. He was the team’s Man of the Match.”
Dithejane’s exceptional work rate and attacking sharpness have quickly established him as a key figure in Berhalter’s side. Meanwhile, his compatriot and Bafana Bafana defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi remains sidelined as he continues his recovery from an injury.
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