Vilakazi raves over partnership with new Chiefs signing – ‘We go back a long way’

Kaizer Chiefs prodigy Mfundo Vilakazi has spoken about his strong connection with new signing Langelihle Phili, highlighting a bond that began long before they both donned the famous gold and black jersey.

The two attacking talents are expected to be key figures in coach Fernando da Cruz’s plans this season. Vilakazi expressed his excitement about reuniting with the explosive forward at Naturena, a partnership that traces its roots back to their time in the youth national teams.

Vilakazi and Phili first built their on-field chemistry while representing South Africa’s Under-20 side, Amajita. They were integral members of the squad that competed in the COSAFA U-20 qualifiers, the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), and the FIFA U-20 World Cup.

Phili made his much-anticipated move to the Amakhosi from Stellenbosch FC in early this month. Vilakazi, on the other hand, was promoted to the Chiefs senior team in late 2023.

Vilakazi buzzing with Phili partnership

Both players have already made a significant impact this season, with Vilakazi featuring in three league matches and Phili in two.

Vilakazi has been a creative force in the midfield, registering a key assist in the team’s opening-day win. Meanwhile, Phili hit the ground running, earning a Man of the Match award on his debut and scoring a crucial equaliser against Mamelodi Sundowns in a tense 1-1 draw on August 15.

“So far, with the new coaching staff and new players, things have gone well,” Vilakazi told the club’s media department. “Take Langelihle [Phili], he got man-of-the-match in his first game and scored against Sundowns in his second.”

“I played with him at national level, so you can see when he scored, I was so happy for him, because we go back a long way together, to the U-20 COSAFA qualifiers, the U-20 AFCON and the U-20 World Cup.”

Chiefs forward praises new coaches

“The new coaches are very good. We trust them and just listen to them and follow their instructions. All in all, I believe we will have a good season.”

Next up, the Amakhosi will face Richards Bay FC at the Princess Magogo Stadium on Wednesday night which will be an opportunity for Vilakazi and Phili to prove that they are part of the solution to Chiefs’ attacking problems.

A victory would take their points tally to 10, keeping them in close pursuit of league leaders and defending champions Orlando Pirates.