Mbekezeli Mbokazi has addressed his selection for the record-breaking MLS All-Star team. The Chicago Fire defender garnered the most votes in the First XI for the 2026 MLS All-Star Game, a prestigious event where he will play alongside renowned footballer Lionel Messi.
This achievement marks a significant milestone as Mbokazi becomes the first South African player to be included in the All-Star team since Doctor Khumalo’s selection in 1996. Currently representing Bafana Bafana in Mexico for the World Cup, Mbokazi reflects on how his Zulu upbringing has influenced his career.
“My background also helps me because we all grew up in different ways and each and everyone has their own way of seeing things,” he stated in an interview with the Chicago Fire media team. He emphasized the challenges of his upbringing, stating, “Being Zulu, it’s rare that your life will be easy, growing up. I saw that the little I had, it will be difficult, but I have to be strong mentally and trust yourself.”
Mbokazi further noted that his cultural heritage inspires resilience. He remarked, “You have to try, get out there and work. I’ll speak for us Zulus, not others because when you really want something, there are high possibilities that you can get it.”