Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz has reacted to Langelihle Phili’s goal during their 1-1 draw against Mamelodi Sundowns in a Betway Premiership clash at FNB Stadium on Saturday.
Phili opened his account for Amakhosi before Sundowns found a second-half equaliser through Cassius Mailula to force a share of the spoils.
The highly-rated attacker started his second consecutive match in Chiefs colours after joining the club from Stellenbosch FC during the current transfer window. Phili was named in the starting lineup in midweek when the Glamour Boys secured a 2-0 victory over Sekhukhune United at FNB Stadium. In that match against Babina Noko, Phili delivered a Man of the Match performance, using his pace and skill to create constant problems for the Sekhukhune defence.
The 21-year-old continued his fine early-season form against Sundowns. After receiving a pass from Siphesihle Ndlovu, who dribbled into the penalty area before laying it off to Phili, the former Stellies player made no mistake from close range.
DA CRUZ SHOWERS PHILI WITH PRAISE
Speaking after the final whistle, Da Cruz emphasised that performances like this are precisely why the club brought Phili to Naturena.
“We signed Phili to make these types of performances; he’s a very good player, but he needs time to understand our game model,” Da Cruz told SuperSport TV.
“I’m very proud of our team because we played three games in six days, and we were amazing today. I’m proud of the squad.”
After sharing spoils with Sundowns, Chiefs remained at the summit of the league table with seven points in three matches played, emerging as early pace setters in the Premiership.
Chiefs won two successive league matches against Kruger United and Sekhukhune United before settling for a draw with the reigning African champions.
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