Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando da Cruz believes Langelihle Phili can develop into an important player for the club, but has urged patience as he continues to adapt to his new surroundings and the demands of his team’s playing model.
Phili joined Chiefs from Stellenbosch FC during the off-season after an impressive campaign in which he scored seven goals. The former South Africa Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations winner made his third appearance for Amakhosi against Mamelodi Sundowns at FNB Stadium on Saturday and marked the occasion with his first goal for the club.
His second-half strike earned Chiefs a 1-1 draw against the African champions and provided an early glimpse of what the youngster could offer.
Da Cruz was pleased to see Phili open his account but believes there is still room for improvement, particularly when it comes to helping Chiefs retain possession under pressure.
“First of all, we would like him to continue to score. But when we are in difficulty against the opposition, when we win the ball, I expect him to help us keep it a little longer. In the first half, he lost too many balls,” Da Cruz said.
The Chiefs coach was encouraged by Phili’s response after the break, saying the youngster was better able to support the team and retain possession when Chiefs were under pressure.
“In the second half, I told him that we needed him to help us keep the ball, and he was much better. He was able to support the team, and we are also very happy that he scored,” he added.
Da Cruz believes Phili is still learning how to operate within Chiefs’ structure and that his development will take time. Rather than placing immediate pressure on the youngster, the coach expects his contribution to grow as he becomes more familiar with the team’s methods.
“He is someone who is finding his bearings in our organisation. We need to give him a little bit of time, but I think the more we progress, the more he will become an important player for us,” Da Cruz explained.
The 21-year-old’s arrival has generated expectations, particularly after his seven-goal campaign at Stellenbosch and his success at youth international level.
For now, Da Cruz is focused on allowing Phili to settle while gradually demanding more from him within the team.
“We need to give him time to adapt to our club and our game model, and he will get better step by step,” the coach said.
His first Chiefs goal has already provided a significant moment in his young Amakhosi career. With the trust of his coach and more experience at the highest level, Phili is expected to play an increasingly important role as the season progresses.
Written by: Sandile Ndumo
