Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper Brian Baloyi has revealed that he was pleased with Benedict Vilakazi's performance and seemingly hungrier attitude against Jomo Cosmos on Sunday.

The former midfield star even netted a goal in his side's 3-1 win over "Ezenkosi" after coming on as a 60th minute substitute for Papi Zothwane in one of his rare appearances for the Brazilians.

Vilakazi has also been on record in recent weeks, speaking out against Bulgarian-born coach Hristo Stoichkov for his lack of game time during this campaign. The two seem to have kissed and made up, which comes as a relief to the Downs' faithful, who have been eager to see the former Orlando Pirates in action regularly.

"There was never any doubt about Ben's ability," Baloyi told Football365.co.za.

"He did speak with the coach after the negative publicity a while ago, and since then has been working extra hard at training."

There is no doubt that an in-form Vilakazi would add value to Bafana Bafana in the World Cup season. The man referred to as the "Little Napoleon" would spark some creativity in the middle of the park to a national team that has lacked some zing going forward, losing eight of their last nine internationals.

Football365.co.za