It seems Kaizer Chiefs’ ‘R16 million man’ has finally delivered for the Glamour Boys after much promise.
After three promising matches, Langelihle Phili scored his first goal for Amakhosi against Mamelodi Sundowns on Saturday afternoon.
Chiefs earned a draw at the FNB Stadium against their rivals to remain top of the Betway Premiership.
The winger opened the scoring in the second half after some excellent work from Siphesihle Ndlovu. Phili kept his composure to find the back of the net and put Chiefs ahead, although their lead did not last as Sundowns eventually found the equaliser.
Phili had been on Kaizer Chiefs’ radar during pre-season, with Stellenbosch FC initially placing a R16 million valuation on the talented attacker.
Rather than pay the full amount in cash, Chiefs negotiated a player-plus-cash deal to secure his services. Ashley Du Preez and Given Msimango were sent to Stellenbosch, alongside a reduced cash payment reportedly worth more than R5 million.
After showing plenty of promise in his opening matches, Phili finally announced himself on the scoresheet against one of the biggest teams in the country.
Kaizer Chiefs have already been eliminated from the MTN8 but still have three other cup competitions to compete in, including the CAF Confederation Cup, where Phili can shine.
With a goal in his fourth match, the former Stellies might be one of the players to watch this season.
Kaizer Chiefs made six signings this season
Thabo Moloisane got his first start since joining the club and also impressed at the back, keeping Mamelodi Sundowns attackers at bay. He is expected to play a big role this season, especially in the CAF Confederation Cup.