Kaizer Chiefs star Mfundo Vilakazi has revealed head coach Fernando Da Cruz has spoken to him privately about curbing unnecessary showboating. The 20-year-old fan favourite's comments come as the Amakhosi prepare for Saturday's high-stakes Soweto Derby against Orlando Pirates, a match that could define their season.
Chiefs sit fifth in the Premier Soccer League with 14 points from eight games, having recorded three wins and five draws, and trail leaders Mamelodi Sundowns by nine points. They head into the derby on the back of a 3-0 victory over TS Galaxy last weekend, a result that extended their current winning run to two games. Their recent form shows two wins, two draws and one defeat from the last five matches, which included a 1-0 win over Red Arrows and a 1-1 draw with Stellenbosch. Orlando Pirates, their opponents this Saturday at FNB Stadium, are second in the standings, seven points ahead of Chiefs.
Learning tactical discipline
Vilakazi, a creative force who made his first-team debut this season, confirmed the tactical guidance from his coach. "When the coach arrived, he told me that he knows my style of play, but sometimes it’s not necessary for me to be showboating," the Soweto-born attacker said. He added that Da Cruz has been clear on his expectations, emphasizing that the team's needs must come first. The conversation shows Da Cruz's focus on blending individual talent with collective responsibility as the club chases its first league title in over a decade.
The young playmaker, renowned for his ability to beat defenders with ease, is seen as a key figure in Chiefs' attacking plans. His development under Da Cruz is viewed as vital for a squad that has scored 13 goals this campaign while conceding only eight, giving them a goal difference of plus five. The team's top scorer this season is M. Shabalala with two goals in five appearances. The team's recent form reads two wins, two draws and one defeat from their last five outings. Vilakazi acknowledged the importance of this mentorship, stating that understanding when to simplify his game is a key part of his growth.
Derby day stakes
This weekend's clash carries extra weight with Chiefs looking to close the gap on their arch-rivals. Both sides enter the fixture after recording emphatic 3-0 victories in midweek cup action, setting the stage for a fiercely contested encounter. For Vilakazi, a local product, the derby represents the ultimate test of applying his coach's advice on the biggest stage. He expressed his readiness for the challenge, noting the unique pressure and excitement that comes with a match of such magnitude.
The fixture is scheduled for Saturday afternoon at FNB Stadium. A positive result for Kaizer Chiefs would provide a significant boost to their league campaign and bragging rights in Soweto. Vilakazi concluded by affirming his commitment to contributing to the team's success in whatever way the coach deems most effective.
First reported at google.com
