Kaizer Chiefs boss explains why Langelihle Phili was left on bench for MTN8 defeat

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz says new signing Langelihle Phili was not ready to start their MTN8 quarter-final against Golden Arrows because he is not yet operating at full fitness.

Phili, 21, joined Kaizer Chiefs from Stellenbosch FC last week on a long-term contract. The deal also involved Ashley Du Preez and Given Msimango moving in the opposite direction.

Despite his recent arrival, Phili was included in the matchday squad for Sunday’s MTN8 quarter-final at FNB Stadium. However, Da Cruz opted not to select him in the starting line-up as Kaizer Chiefs were knocked out of the season-opening tournament by Golden Arrows.

The forward eventually made his debut from the substitutes’ bench, replacing Nkosingiphile Ngcobo during the second half. He spent just under 30 minutes on the pitch as Amakhosi’s campaign came to an early end.

Speaking through a translator after the match, Da Cruz said the club’s technical team was managing Phili’s integration carefully because the player had not yet reached the required level.

“He’s happy about the performance of Phili today,” translated Da Cruz’s interpreter.

“But for him he’s not ready, not at 100% for the moment. So, we go step by step with him to be careful.”

Phili arrives at Kaizer Chiefs after an encouraging season with Stellenbosch FC. He scored nine goals in 39 appearances last term, including seven in the Betway Premiership.

His arrival gives Da Cruz another attacking option, but the coach’s comments indicate that the club intends to introduce him gradually rather than place immediate demands on the young forward.

Kaizer Chiefs will not have long to respond to their MTN8 elimination. They return to action on Wednesday, when they host Sekhukhune United at FNB Stadium.

The club will remain at the same venue on Saturday for a highly anticipated meeting with Mamelodi Sundowns. The two fixtures will give Phili further opportunities to continue adapting to his new surroundings, although Da Cruz will decide how quickly to increase his involvement.

Sunday’s defeat means Golden Arrows progress in the MTN8, while Kaizer Chiefs must now focus on their domestic league schedule. For Phili, the match marked the beginning of his career with Amakhosi, but his coach has made clear that the priority is to develop his involvement carefully.

The 21-year-old’s previous record at Stellenbosch FC, where he produced nine goals across 39 appearances, will raise expectations around his contribution. Nevertheless, Da Cruz has stressed that Phili is not yet ready to play at 100% and that the technical team will continue to take a step-by-step approach with him.