Khama Billiat steps out of retirement; returns to Warriors squad for AFCON 2025 Qualifiers

ZIMSPHERE

HARARE — Yadah FC forward Khama Billiat is set to return to international football this September, representing the Zimbabwe national football team almost three years after his shock retirement. 

One more time — Khama Billiat returns to Warriors squad 

The 34 year old had retired from international football in late 2021, when he was still plying his trade in South Africa for Kaizer Chiefs. He last played for the Warriors in a FIFA World Cup 2022 Qualifying match against Ethiopia. He has 43 caps for the national team.

After battling injuries for most of 2023, Billiat decided to return to Zimbabwe this season, where he has found his form again at Walter Magaya's Yadah FC. He currently leads the top goal scorers standings after Matchday 24, tied on 10 goals with Simba Bhora's Tymon Muchope and Caps United's William Manondo. 

In a statement released this morning, Billiat expressed his desire to don the Warriors jersey one more time. 

"I feel I still have something to give to Zimbabwean football, locally and internationally. I have been reflecting deeply, and I am convinced there is one chapter which remains unfinished - between Khama Billiat and the Zimbabwe national football team," reads part of the statement. 

"I have RECONSIDERED my decision to retire and would love to REPRESENT (sic) my country one more time." 

The Zimbabwe Football Federation (ZIFA) was quick to take advantage of Billiat's interest in returning to national team football. 

Billiat (centre) meeting with new Warriors' head coach Micheal Nees (right)

On Wednesday morning, Billiat held a meeting with new Warriors' head coach Michael Nees, and they had "fruitful discussions," according to an official statement released by ZIFA confirming Billiat's return to the Warriors squad. 

The Warriors squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Kenya and Cameron scheduled for early September was announced on Monday. 

Zimbabwe is in Group J for the qualifiers alongside Kenya, Cameron and Namibia. They're up against Kenya on September 6 at Nelson Mandela Stadium in Uganda. They play Cameron four days later at the same venue.