“Not Far Off” – Kaze Reveals Vilakazi’s New Role
Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Cedric Kaze has revealed that teenage sensation Mfundo Vilakazi is “not far off” from securing a place in the starting XI.
Vilakazi, whose every touch routinely sends the Amakhosi faithful into a frenzy, has been hampered by recent injuries. The setback forced him to miss last month’s emphatic 3-0 Soweto Derby win over Orlando Pirates, as well as the narrow 1-0 defeat to Richards Bay.
The 20-year-old made his return as a second-half substitute two weeks ago at FNB Stadium, helping Chiefs snap a four-match losing streak with a victory over Durban City.
He followed that up last weekend at Moses Mabhida Stadium, coming off the bench to score a clinical 84th-minute goal on the turn to seal a 2-0 win against bottom-placed Magesi FC.
When will Mfundo Vilakazi start for Kaizer Chiefs?
The victory propelled Chiefs to fourth in the Betway Premiership standings, with 36 points from 20 matches. Despite the clamor for Vilakazi to start, Kaze is maintaining a measured approach.
“I believe that he’s not far off. This season, the games he has started have often been down to technical decisions,” Kaze explained. “He is a player who gives everything at training and during games. We want players who can make a sustained impact.”
Kaze also highlighted specific areas for the youngster’s development: “There are improvements he needs to make, especially when the team doesn’t have the ball. He needs to be a little more physical and stronger in possession. But he’s a wonderful kid who wants to learn, and I’m certain he will go far.”
What is next for Amakhosi?
Following the FIFA international break, Chiefs will look to extend their two-game winning streak. They travel to Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on 6 April to face second-from-bottom Orbit College.
