Kaizer Chiefs’ Mfundo Vilakazi reveals long-standing bond with Langelihle Phili

Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Mfundo Vilakazi says his long-standing relationship with new signing Langelihle Phili can help the pair make an impact in Fernando Da Cruz’s attacking plans this season.

Vilakazi and Phili previously played together for South Africa’s Amajita Under-20 side, where they developed their understanding during the COSAFA Under-20 qualifiers, the U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the FIFA U20 World Cup.

Phili completed his move from Stellenbosch FC to Kaizer Chiefs in early August 2026, while Vilakazi was officially promoted to the Amakhosi senior squad in late 2023.

Both players have made encouraging starts to life in the first team. Vilakazi has appeared in three Betway Premiership matches this season, while Phili has featured twice for Kaizer Chiefs.

Vilakazi has provided energy and creativity from midfield, including an assist in the club’s commanding victory on the opening day of the campaign.

Phili, meanwhile, made an immediate impression under the new coaching staff. He was named Man of the Match on his debut before scoring his first goal for the club in Kaizer Chiefs’ 1-1 draw with Mamelodi Sundowns on 15 August.

Speaking to the club’s media, Vilakazi said he was particularly pleased to see Phili make such a quick impact because of their shared history with the national youth teams.

“So far, with the new coaching staff and new players, things have gone well,” Vilakazi told the club’s media.

“Take Langelihle [Phili], he got man-of-the-match in his first game and scored against (Mamelodi) Sundowns in his second.

“I played with him at national level, so you can see when he scored I was so happy for him, because we go back a long way together, to the U-20 COSAFA qualifiers, the U-20 AFCON and the U-20 World Cup.

“The new coaches are very good. We trust them and just listen to them and follow their instructions. All in all, I believe we will have a good season.”

The pair are expected to be important figures for Da Cruz as he develops his attacking approach at Naturena. Their familiarity, built through several South Africa Under-20 campaigns, could prove valuable as they continue to adapt to playing together at club level.

Chiefs target points against Richards Bay

Kaizer Chiefs are due to face Richards Bay FC at the Princess Magogo Stadium in KwaMashu on Wednesday, 26 August 2026. Kick-off is scheduled for 19h30.

Victory would take Amakhosi to 10 points in the league table and keep them in touch with leaders and defending champions Orlando Pirates.

The match will provide another opportunity for Vilakazi and Phili to build on their promising starts, with Phili having already opened his Kaizer Chiefs goalscoring account against Mamelodi Sundowns.