Mfundo Vilakazi confident Kaizer Chiefs can beat Red Arrows again in Zambia

Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Mfundo Vilakazi believes his side can repeat their previous victory in Ndola when they face Red Arrows in the CAF Confederation Cup on Saturday.

The first leg of the second preliminary-round tie will be played at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 3pm.

Vilakazi, known as ‘Obrigado’, featured when Chiefs defeated ZESCO United at the same venue during last season’s Confederation Cup group stage. That experience has given the 20-year-old confidence that Amakhosi can secure another positive result in Zambia.

“Training was good. It’s very hot here but we’ll manage. I think we are ready for tomorrow,” Vilakazi told the club’s official website.

The Soweto side are aiming to gain an advantage before the return match in Durban as they pursue a place in the competition’s group stages. Chiefs did not progress beyond that stage last season.

Vilakazi said the players were determined to build on their previous success at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium.

“Last time we played here we won so I think we must do the same again,” he said.

Chiefs have also assessed Red Arrows during their preparations and are aware of the threat posed by the Zambian team.

“We saw some of them in our video session. They are a good team and we won’t underestimate them,” Vilakazi added.

The midfielder’s comments underline the importance Chiefs have placed on maintaining concentration and discipline in the opening match of the tie. Red Arrows will be looking to use home advantage to establish their own first-leg lead.

Vilakazi has also been included in South Africa’s under-20 national team after receiving a recent call-up. Although he welcomed the recognition, he said his attention was firmly on helping Chiefs negotiate their continental assignment.

“I’m really happy about it but for now I am totally focused on my club and what we need to do,” he said.

Saturday’s match will give Vilakazi another opportunity to contribute to Chiefs’ CAF Confederation Cup campaign and demonstrate his growing maturity.

Amakhosi will need to remain composed against a Red Arrows side they have studied closely. Chiefs are targeting a strong away result to take into the return fixture in Durban, while Vilakazi will hope his familiarity with the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium can help the visitors repeat their previous success in Ndola.