Teenage prodigy, Mfundo Vilakazi’s official senior debut was one of the few positives to emerge from Amakhosi’s shock exit from the Nedbank Cup last Sunday.

The teenager came off the bench in the second half and showed confidence and maturity beyond his teenage years with some assured touches and positional awareness.

Speaking to www.kaizerchiefs.com, in preparation for Saturday’s derby against Moroka Swallows, Obrigado, as he is affectionately known, says, “I was very excited and happy to make my debut. Personally, I think I did ok for my first game. I didn’t give the ball away too much, but we are all disappointed with the result.”

Much is expected of the precociously talented attacking midfielder, but he is sensible enough to recognise that he has a lot to learn in the game and therefore counts himself fortunate to be learning his craft at the hallowed sanctuary of Naturena, where so many legendary performers preceded him on the journey to greatness.

“I am really grateful to be at a Club like Kaizer Chiefs. I am learning every day,” he reveals, continuing, “There are many senior players who teach me how to conduct myself as a Kaizer Chiefs player, both on and off the field. They give me advice to help me become a better player and keep improving.”

With the Amakhosi Faithful justifiably less than pleased with Sunday’s outcome against Milford FC, the team knows that only a convincing victory over their Soweto neighbours will appease their discontent.

Vilakazi himself acknowledges that “the game against Swallows is a must-win game for us because the supporters are not happy at the moment, so I think we have to go out and win to make them happy. We are training hard and we are determined to play well.”

The Dube Birds have experienced a period of well-documented turmoil recently and Vilakazi believes Amakhosi must work hard in order to claim the three DStv Premiership points.

“Swallows have had their challenges recently. They have quite a number of new players and coaching staff, so I don’t know how they are preparing for this game,” he points out, “I think we must take advantage of this situation and beat them on Saturday.”

The player will be hoping to get an opportunity to contribute on the pitch against Swallows and bring joy to his loved ones , and the wider fanbase of loyal supporters.

“My friends and family are very happy for me and it motivates me to make them proud of me when I get minutes for the first team,” he says, “I would love to see all our fans come and support us on Saturday. We will make you happy. Amakhosi 4 Life!”

The clash between Amakhosi and the Dube Birds kicks off at 17:45 on Saturday at FNB Stadium.

Tickets for this derby clash between Chiefs and Swallows are on sale through TicketPro online at www.ticketpros.co.za or Spar and Boxer Supermarkets, PostNet, Shell and Sasol filling stations at R60 per ticket.

With another match following on Tuesday, 5 March, against Golden Arrows, supporters are urged to purchase tickets for that match as well when they go to TicketPro.

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