Junior Khanye believes Mfundo Vilakazi will peak like Thembinkosi Lorch and Themba Zwane

Vilakazi impressed once again as Chiefs claimed a 3-1 victory over AS Simba in the CAF Confederation Cup second preliminary round second leg in Dobsonville on Sunday.

The 19-year-old provided two assists, helping Amakhosi seal progression to the group stage of the competition.

Khanye, speaking on iDiski TV, praised the teenager's creativity and composure but urged patience with his development, emphasizing the importance of consistent game time and proper positional use.

"Mfundo is going to be like Lorch and Themba Zwane and will perform and start peaking at the age of 25 in my opinion," Khanye said.

"When you have natural talent and haven't been properly developed, you do well against your peers. There is pressure in the Under-20 and Under-23 teams, but it's different at club level where you need consistency."

Khanye highlighted that while Vilakazi's technical ability makes him stand out, his role on the wing demands decisiveness in one-on-one situations — an area the youngster is still improving in.

"He can become a star player, but that will depend on the coach — if the coach believes in him and trusts him," Khanye added.

"The way they are playing him as a winger is demanding, and he struggles in one-vs-one situations. Taking someone on requires quick decision-making and conviction, but Mfundo prefers to pass because he's technically gifted."

The outspoken pundit concluded by stressing that Vilakazi's long-term success will depend on Chiefs' patience and their willingness to nurture his growth.

"I think he will mature when he reaches 24 years old. I'm not sure if they will be patient with him — it will depend on the coach keeping him and playing him consistently."