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Benedict Vilakazi Reflects on Challenging Transition from Player to Coach
Former South African football sensation Benedict “Tso” Vilakazi has candidly discussed the personal journey he’s undertaken in transitioning from a celebrated player to a budding coach.
Benedict Vilakazi, born on August 9 1982, is a retired South African football player who is Orlando Pirates’ leading goal scorer in the PSL era.
Nicknamed “Tso” and “Little Napoleon,” Vilakazi made a name for himself at Orlando Pirates, scoring over 50 goals for the club during his several years with the mighty Buccaneers. His impressive performances earned him a transfer to Danish Superliga club Aalborg BK in 2007. However, due to illness and difficulty adjusting to European football, he struggled to make an impact there.
Vilakazi returned to South Africa in 2008, joining Mamelodi Sundowns. After a lackluster stint with Sundowns, he was loaned to Mpumalanga Black Aces. Unfortunately, reported disciplinary issues led to his departure from Black Aces and the non-renewal of his contract with Sundowns.
In the later stages of his career, Vilakazi played for Black Leopards in South Africa and Malanti Chiefs in Swaziland. He also had a brief spell with Notwane FC in Botswana, which ended prematurely due to unpaid wages and fees. His final club was Botswana Meat Commission, where he signed a one-year contract in 2013.