From Chile star to Chiefs dynamo: Mfundo Vilakazi’s stock rises fast

Young attacker Mfundo Vilakazi is riding a wave of confidence and rising prominence after his standout performances at the recent FIFA Under-20 World Cup in Chile.

Known affectionately as ‘Obrigado,’ Vilakazi is now channelling that international experience into his preparations with Kaizer Chiefs ahead of their crucial Betway Premiership fixture against Siwelele FC at FNB Stadium on Wednesday evening.

Vilakazi’s stock has risen sharply in football circles following his man-of-the-match displays for Amajita at the tournament. The 19-year-old spoke about the benefit of his time abroad.

“Things are going well for me, personally. I’m feeling good and working hard to improve each and every training session,” the in-form attacker revealed. “I also think playing at the World Cup has given me added confidence.”

Mfundo Vilakazi Managing Multiple Fronts

Since his return from Chile, ‘Obrigado’ featured off the bench in last weekend’s goalless draw against AS Simba in the first-leg of the CAF Confederation Cup second preliminary round in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Reflecting on the tough match in Lubumbashi, Mfundo Vilakazi highlighted the challenge of the playing surface and the need for greater clinical finishing. “It was a tough match. We are not used to playing on that (artificial) turf, but we had to manage,” he said. “We created so many chances but didn’t convert. It was not the perfect result for us, but we have the home leg to come and we must make sure we make our opportunities count this time.”

Kaizer Chiefs Star Focuses on Siwelele

Before Amakhosi turn their attention to the decisive second-leg tie on Sunday, they must first negotiate a domestic league fixture to maintain their high position in the standings. Vilakazi, who celebrates his 20th birthday next month, showed maturity in discussing the demands of playing for a big club competing on multiple fronts.

“We are involved in a few competitions, so we need everybody,” he explained, emphasising the team unity. “Each player knows he will get his chance, and there is a lot of unity within the squad. We all support each other, no matter who is playing or not in any given match.”

The immediate objective, however, remains fixed on the mid-week league clash.

“Tomorrow’s game is very important because a win will give us the boost to go into Sunday’s game with confidence,” Vilakazi asserted. “Therefore, we are only focused on Siwelele right now, and then we will look to Sunday. We have trained well and we’re looking forward to the match.”

The Betway Premiership encounter between Kaizer Chiefs and Siwelele kicks off on Wednesday at 19:30 at the FNB Stadium.