Mfundo Vilakazi is determined to carry his national team success to Kaizer Chiefs, eyeing a bigger role in the 2024/25 Betway Premiership season.
The 18-year-old forward has caught attention with his performances for South Africa’s Under-20 team, scoring in both of their friendlies against Lesotho.
Speaking after the friendlies, Vilakazi shared his optimism about the upcoming season. “We played well as a team with the guidance of our new coach, Mdaka,” Vilakazi said in an interview with Kaizer Chiefs’ official website.
“Each coach is different, and I enjoyed working with him. We did our best and we plan to keep on working hard to make sure we win our games and qualify for big tournaments.”
Vilakazi’s recent success came on the heels of his controversial display during Chiefs’ pre-season Toyota Cup match against Young Africans.
Known for his flashy style, Vilakazi was criticised for showboating in that game. However, the young forward has since moved past the criticism, focusing instead on making a positive impact for Chiefs in the upcoming season.
“I want to take the experience and hope to replicate the performance when we start the new season at Kaizer Chiefs.
“We will work hard to make sure that supporters are happy from the first game of the season in September,” he added.
Kaizer Chiefs are set to begin their Betway Premiership campaign on 14 September, travelling to the Free State Stadium to face Marumo Gallants FC.
Friday's training session at the Kaizer Chiefs Village in Naturena #Amakhosi4Life #AlwaysHome pic.twitter.com/GRBEoDkKef
— Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) August 16, 2024
