Kaizer Chiefs could receive a timely boost ahead of their Carling Knockout Cup semi-final against Mamelodi Sundowns, with winger Langelihle Phili edging closer to a return from injury.
The 22-year-old attacker has been sidelined for several weeks after suffering an ankle injury during Chiefs’ 1-1 draw against Sundowns on 15 August. However, Amakhosi supporters have reason to be optimistic following a positive update from assistant coach Fernando Da Cruz.
Phili has reportedly returned to full team training and could be available for the highly anticipated semi-final later this month.
Da Cruz Provides Positive Injury Update
Speaking after Chiefs’ 2-1 victory over Siwelele in the Carling Knockout Cup quarter-finals, Da Cruz confirmed that Phili had resumed football activities with the squad.
The coaching staff are now working towards getting the winger back to full fitness and competitive readiness.
“[Langelihle] Phili restarted this week [last week] with the squad and has been taking part in football sessions on the field,” Da Cruz told FARPost.
He added that the player was getting closer to returning to competitive action, although his availability for the semi-final is not yet guaranteed.
“So, he is close to restarting to play competitions.
“Maybe he will be ready for the semi-final; we don’t know, but we’ll work a lot with him during this FIFA [international] break for [November],” the Chiefs assistant coach explained.
Phili Eager to Make His Chiefs Comeback
Phili made an encouraging start to life at Naturena after joining Kaizer Chiefs from Stellenbosch FC in August.
The winger quickly caught the attention of supporters with his attacking qualities and ability to create opportunities in the final third.
He also opened his scoring account for Amakhosi against Mamelodi Sundowns in the Betway Premiership on 15 August. However, the same match ended with disappointment after he sustained the ankle injury that forced him out of action.
His absence has been a setback for Chiefs, who will be hoping to have their attacking options available as the season progresses.
Sundowns Semi-Final Could Be the Perfect Return
Kaizer Chiefs are preparing for a challenging Carling Knockout Cup semi-final against Mamelodi Sundowns, with the two sides set to meet later this month.
The November FIFA international break gives Phili valuable time to improve his fitness and regain match sharpness before the cup encounter.
However, Da Cruz has made it clear that the club will not rush the winger back before he is ready.
If Phili manages to return in time, his pace, creativity and attacking threat could provide Chiefs with an additional weapon against the defending domestic heavyweights.
Will Kaizer Chiefs Be Stronger With Phili Back?
Phili’s potential return could make a significant difference to Chiefs’ attacking options.
His ability to take on defenders, stretch opposition defences and create scoring opportunities could give Amakhosi another dimension in the final third.
Nevertheless, the biggest priority will be ensuring that he has fully recovered from his ankle injury before returning to competitive football.
For Chiefs supporters, the possibility of seeing Phili back in action against Sundowns is certainly encouraging. Whether he makes the matchday squad will depend on his progress during the international break.
