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Former Al Ahly coach Pitso Mosimane has praised Khama Billiat's exceptional talent ahead of Zimbabwe's crucial AFCON qualifiers against Kenya's Harambee Stars.
Pitso Mosimane has paid tribute to Khama Billiat praising the Zimbabwean star for his consistent brilliance on the pitch.
Mosimane’s glowing commendation comes just days before Billiat is set to make his return to international football in Zimbabwe's crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Kenya’s Harambee Stars on September 6.
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Billiat, who recently scooped two major accolades in Zimbabwe has been the subject of widespread admiration not least from his former coach Mosimane.
The 33-year-old winger was named both the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League Player of the Month and the Footballers Union of Zimbabwe’s Player of the Month for July, after an impressive run of form for Yadah FC.
During that period Billiat scored three goals and provided one assist across four matches.
Taking to social media platform X, Mosimane, who coached Billiat for five years at Mamelodi Sundowns shared his admiration for the winger’s talent.
“Class is permanent. One of the best players I have ever coached,” Mosimane wrote in a heartfelt tribute.
“I phoned him for a full year, every week convincing him that I will give him support and the platform to showcase his talent, and that he is the one to help us win CAF Champions League."
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Under Mosimane’s tutelage at Sundowns, Billiat flourished and became one of the most feared attackers on the continent, playing a pivotal role in Sundowns' CAF Champions League triumph in 2016.
Mosimane reflected on the versatility of the Zimbabwean forward, emphasizing his ability to influence games beyond just scoring and assisting.
“Scores, assists, recoveries, steals lots of balls, and very strong on the ball despite his small frame,” the renowned tactician added.
“His first touch on bringing down an aerial ball was amazing. He really loved (Hlompho) Kekana’s long passes. What a player to watch in training more than games.”
Mosimane’s admiration for Billiat’s technical abilities was clear.
“His football intelligence is remarkable. He could read the game, always be in the right place at the right time, and execute flawlessly. These attributes make him a rare breed, and it was always a joy coaching him,” Mosimane said.
Billiat returns to international duty
Billiat’s return to the international stage marks a significant moment for Zimbabwe, as the veteran forward previously retired from national team duty in November 2021 under unclear circumstances.
Now, three years later, the 34-year-old has had a change of heart and is ready to once again don the Zimbabwean jersey.
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In a statement released by the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA), Billiat's decision to rejoin the Warriors was met with enthusiasm.
“The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) is thrilled to announce the return of Khama Billiat to the Warriors squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Kenya and Cameroon,” ZIFA said.
“Following fruitful discussions between Khama Billiat and Head Coach Michael Nees, the dynamic forward has been officially added to the national team squad."
Billiat's return comes at a critical juncture as Zimbabwe prepares for back-to-back qualifiers, first against Kenya on September 6 and then Cameroon on September 10.
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