Snake Park’s 14-year-old sensation Mfundo Vilakazi has become one of the most talked about players at the 17 th edition of the Discovery Walter Sisulu Soccer Challenge at the Nike Training Centre in Soweto, Klipspruit,Pimville.
Vilakazi may not be a household name yet but according to his proud father, Sabelo Dlamini, it probably won’t be long before he plays football overseas. “I am shocked actually seeing what my son is doing on the football pitch even though I knew ever since he was a 7-year-old boy that he is talented.
“Ten years from now I see my son playing football overseas, not even in the
Premier Soccer League (PSL). I encourage him to take football seriously, as a
career but academics are also important, he needs to balance the two,”
said Dlamini.
Dlamini went on to say that he knew that his boy was destined for greatness.
“When he was a just a 3-year-old I used to throw a tennis ball at him and he
would kick it like someone who is old and has played football before.”
The Dzakaroski FC prodigy is an exciting left winger that enjoys dribbling opponents and is confident on the ball for someone so young playing against older players. Vilakazi was born in Soweto, Snake Park Block 10 and started playing the beautiful game from a tender age of seven for Charmer Boys based in Snake Park.
The Jabulani Technical High School grade 9 pupil is the youngest player to play for a senior team at the Discovery Challenge.
“I love football because I believe it is my God given talent. I also love
showboating, entertaining the with my skills, it makes me feel good. My role as
a left-winger is to cross the ball into the box and I have scored two goals for
my team Dzakaroski in three games,“ said a shy looking Vilakazi after his side
lost 7-1 against Senaoane Gunners. Vilakazi who is a fans favourite was the one
who scored the consolation goal for his struggling team.
“During the Discovery Challenge I have learnt that as a team we shouldn’t lose
hope quickly. So far I am having fun at the tournament, my coach gives me
freedom to do whatever I want but said I must try not lose the ball frequently.
It feels good playing against older players because you learn and grow mentally
as a player.
Like any other 14-year-old playing football, Vilakazi dreams of playing overseas and said his parents’ supports and motivate him. “I want to play for Mamelodi Sundowns because they play good football and win games but I also want to play overseas.
“My favorite player is Neymar Jnr as his playing style is similar to mine; I love to dribble,” added Vilakazi.
To stay updated on the tournament, follow Discovery Walter Sisulu Soccer Challenge 2019 on Facebook and use the hashtag #DWSSC19 across platforms to follow all the action.
INFO SUPPLIED BY Msports Marketing,
