Johnson gives verdict on Mfundo Vilakazi’s Kaizer Chiefs debut

It wasn’t a terrible day on all fronts for Kaizer Chiefs as they exited the Nedbank Cup. At least Mfundo Vilakazi got his bow.

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Johnson discusses Obrigado’s Kaizer Chiefs debut

Kaizer Chiefs interim boss Cavin Johnson is happy with how teenage star Mfundo ‘Obrigado’ Vilakazi performed on debut. The 18-year-old replaced Mduduzi Shabalala in the 63rd minute as Amakhosi fans rose to their feet.

Vilakazi was promoted to the first team in January and almost claimed a dramatic win with late, long-range effort deflecting for a corner.

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Another academy star makes the grade

Soweto-born star Vilakazi was an unused substitute in the 0-0 draw with Royal AM last time out but here he got his first taste of first-team action.

“There were so many moments that we had to score the goal, just the wrong technique at the wrong time,” said Johnson. “We hit the crossbar, the upright, you can’t do anything as far as that is concerned, and Mfundo came on and did quite well.

“For a young player who came on, and I put him on a really pressure game, I think he did well. I don’t think he lost the ball [throughout the game]. He’s got a bright future with Kaizer Chiefs.

“Unfortunately, tonight [Sunday], he was not able to show his real qualities, which I think would have come if we had scored the goal; then you would have seen how good he is at moving the ball. But he did well for me.”

Other recent academy graduates to step up to the first team include the aforementioned Mdu Shabalala, Wandile Dube and Samkelo Zwane.

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The Kaizer Chiefs Naturena Village in all its glory. Image: Ernest Makhaya

Meanwhile, hit up James Freemantle for more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game.

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