Mfundo Vilakazi says Fernando Da Cruz told him: ‘I want to make you the best player in the PSL this season’

Kaizer Chiefs attacking midfielder Mfundo Vilakazi says new head coach Fernando Da Cruz has challenged him to become the standout player in the Premier Soccer League after his match‐winning display in the Toyota Cup.

The 21-year-old was named Man of the Match as Chiefs beat Zimbabwean opposition 1-0 to claim the pre-season trophy for the first time at the third attempt, with Vilakazi scoring the only goal of the game in the 17th minute.

Vilakazi, a South Africa junior international, said the strike and individual award were a vital confidence boost with the Betway Premiership due to kick off next week and the 2026-27 campaign fast approaching.

Speaking to SABC Sport after the final whistle, Vilakazi underlined how much the trust shown in him by the technical team has driven his performances.

“First of all, I’d like to thank God for the opportunity he gave me, also thank the coaches for fielding me because they believe in me,” said Vilakazi.

“It shows that they trust me. What I need to do is fight for them on the pitch. Coming to the goal I scored I think it was important because we won 1-0. If I hadn’t scored, I think maybe now we’d be going to extra time.”

The midfielder was a constant threat, regularly unsettling the Zimbabwean side’s defence, and his first-half finish ultimately separated the teams as Chiefs secured the Toyota Cup.

Vilakazi believes the goal could prove a key moment in his preparation for the new league season.

“I think this goal is going to give me confidence with the Betway Premiership starting next week. I’ll have some confidence already. I just need to continue working hard everything else will happen later.”

Da Cruz’s personal challenge to Vilakazi

Vilakazi also lifted the lid on an early conversation with Da Cruz, who has taken charge at Kaizer Chiefs ahead of the new campaign.

According to Vilakazi, the French coach set out a clear and ambitious vision for his development from the moment he arrived at the club.

“The coach told me when he arrived that he wants make me the best player in the PSL this season,” added Vilakazi.

“I should just listen to him and do what he asks, block the noise and concentrate on the field because he believes in me.”

Da Cruz’s backing appears to have given Vilakazi added responsibility and motivation as Chiefs look to carry their pre-season form into competitive action in the Betway Premiership.

With a pre-season trophy secured, a decisive goal to his name and a public show of faith from his new coach, Vilakazi will go into the opening weeks of the 2026-27 season aiming to turn that promise into consistent performances for Kaizer Chiefs.