Da Cruz full of praise for Kaizer Chiefs new arrival – ‘We signed him to deliver this’

Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando da Cruz has shared his thoughts on Langelihle Phili’s contribution following the team’s 1-1 draw with Mamelodi Sundowns.

Phili scored his first goal for the club with a well-executed strike in the second half. However, the goal was not enough to secure what would have been Chiefs’ third consecutive league victory.

“We signed Phili to deliver this type of performance,” Da Cruz stated in a post-match interview with SuperSport as per Soccer Laduma. 

“He is a very good player, but he still needs time to fully understand our game model,” the coach explained.

Phili joined Chiefs with big reputation

Phili joined Chiefs this month after months of negotiations that sometimes broke down before a deal was eventually reached between them and Stellenbosch FC.

Chiefs offered cash plus striker Ashley Du Preez and defender Given Msimango for Phili, who was Stellies best player last season, having scored nine goals in 39 games.

Meanwhile, Da Cruz also expressed immense satisfaction with his squad’s resilience, noting the demanding schedule. “I’m very proud of the team because playing three games in six days with the same players is amazing. I’m very proud of the squad.”

Da Cruz impressed with attitude

Reflecting on the match itself, Da Cruz was pleased with his team’s overall display against a formidable opponent.

“We were leading 1-0 and then conceded from a set-piece. We have to acknowledge that they are a good team and had a lot of possession, but we didn’t give away many chances,” he said. “We were strong today, and we can be proud of the team.”