South African winger Puso Dithejane produced a starring performance as Chicago Fire secured their place in the Leagues Cup quarter-finals with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Cruz Azul.

With the Fire needing a result to progress, Dithejane stepped up when it mattered most. The 23-year-old found the breakthrough in the second half before striking again deep into stoppage time to complete his brace and seal all three points for Chicago.

The result capped a perfect Phase One campaign for the Fire, who finished with three wins from three matches and nine points, making them the highest-ranked MLS side in the competition. Cruz Azul, meanwhile, were eliminated following the defeat.

For Dithejane, the performance represents another major step forward on the international stage. His two goals earned him Man of the Match honours, with Chicago head coach Gregg Berhalter praising the winger’s potential and his consistent performances in training.

The Fire now turn their attention to the knockout stages, where they will face CF Monterrey in the quarter-finals between August 25 and 27.

But after Dithejane’s match-winning display against one of Mexico’s biggest clubs, there is little doubt that South African football fans will be watching closely to see what the winger can produce next.