Sundowns clash could mark Phili’s long-awaited Kaizer Chiefs return

Kaizer Chiefs could welcome back winger Langelihle Phili for their upcoming clash against Mamelodi Sundowns in the Carling Knockout Cup.

Masandawana are set to host Amakhosi in the semi-final later this month, with Phili potentially in contention to make his return.

The winger suffered a serious ankle injury during the 15 August draw against Sundowns and subsequently missed eight matches.

However, after Kaizer Chiefs’ 2-1 win over Siwelele in the Carling Knockout Cup quarter-finals, assistant coach Fernando Da Cruz said Phili had returned to training with the squad.

“[Langelihle] Phili restarted this week [last week] with the squad and has been taking part in football sessions on the field,” he told FARPost.

“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].”

Phili has been a joy to watch since joining Chiefs from Stellenbosch in August.

Phili to return to Kaizer Chiefs lineup

The winger scored his first goal for Amakhosi against Mamelodi Sundowns in the Betway Premiership three months ago. Unfortunately, he picked up an injury during the same match, ruling him out for several weeks.

With a two-week FIFA international break providing an opportunity to work on his fitness, Phili will be hoping to regain full match sharpness ahead of Kaizer Chiefs’ next fixture.

His potential return would be a timely boost for Amakhosi as they prepare for a crucial cup encounter against Sundowns.