He Scored Against Them Last Time: Kaizer Chiefs Get Secret Weapon Back for Mamelodi Sundowns War

Chiefs Receive Major Langelihle Phili Injury Boost Ahead of Mamelodi Sundowns Showdown

Kaizer Chiefs have received a significant boost ahead of their eagerly anticipated Carling Knockout Cup semi-final against Mamelodi Sundowns, with head coach Fernando da Cruz providing an encouraging update on the recovery of winger Langelihle Phili.

The young attacker has been working his way back to full fitness after spending several weeks on the sidelines because of an ankle injury. His potential return comes at an important stage of the season, with Amakhosi preparing for a crucial encounter against one of their biggest rivals.

Speaking to journalists following Chiefs’ dramatic 2-1 victory over Siwelele FC in the Carling Knockout Cup quarter-finals, Da Cruz confirmed that Phili has made considerable progress in his rehabilitation and has already returned to training with the first team.

According to the French tactician, the 21-year-old has resumed football activities with his teammates, bringing him closer to making his competitive return.

“Phili restarted this week with the squad and has been taking part in football sessions on the field. So, he is close to restarting to play competitions,” Da Cruz revealed.

However, the Chiefs coach remained cautious about confirming whether the winger would be available for the upcoming semi-final.

“Maybe he will be ready for the semi-final; we don’t know, but we’ll work a lot with him during this FIFA break for November,” he added.

Phili’s injury setback came after Chiefs’ 1-1 draw against Mamelodi Sundowns on August 15, 2026. Interestingly, the winger scored the opening goal in that encounter before Cassius Mailula rescued a point for Masandawana.

The former Stellenbosch FC attacker subsequently suffered a serious ankle injury during training, forcing him to miss eight competitive matches across all competitions.

His absence has been a setback for Amakhosi, particularly considering the attacking qualities he demonstrated during his early appearances for the Soweto giants.

Meanwhile, Chiefs have booked their place in the Carling Knockout Cup semi-finals after producing a determined comeback against Siwelele FC.

Amakhosi initially fell behind but recovered to secure a 2-1 victory, with Wandile Duba and Asanele Velebayi playing important roles in the turnaround.

The victory has now set up an exciting semi-final meeting with Mamelodi Sundowns, scheduled for the weekend of November 21-22.

With the November FIFA international break providing additional preparation time, Da Cruz will be hoping to have Phili available for the important encounter.

For Chiefs supporters, the possibility of seeing the talented winger return against Sundowns will certainly be encouraging news as Amakhosi continue their pursuit of silverware this season.

Source https://x.com/i/status/2119734299423371521

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