Zimbabwe coach Michael Nees explains the ‘missing ingredient’ that won over Khama Billiat

Zimbabwe head coach Michael Nees has praised the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) for creating an environment that enabled players like to return to the national team, significantly boosting their campaign to qualify for the

The Warriors secured their spot in next year’s tournament with a game to spare, sitting second in Group J with nine points, trailing leaders Cameroon by two.

Billiat, who retired from international football in 2021 to pave the way for emerging talent, reversed his decision ahead of key qualifiers against Kenya and Cameroon.

 The former Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs forward provided the assist for the decisive goal against Kenya’s Harambee Stars  that ensured Zimbabwe’s qualification during a match against Kenya in Polokwane.

Al Duhail and Harambee Stars striker has struggled to find his scoring form in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, overshadowed by standout performances from the competition's top scorers.

Nees, appointed as head coach last year, identified Billiat as the missing piece in his squad, describing him as the “creative heart” behind the striker.

“During my interview process for this job, I reviewed the team’s past games and felt there was a gap – a player who could make the difference,” Nees explained.

“Khama fit that profile perfectly. I observed his performances at club level with Yadah FC, and I knew I had to bring him back into the fold.”

The coach revealed that convincing Billiat to come out of retirement wasn’t a straightforward process. It required ZIFA to meet specific professional standards that resonated with the player and the squad at large.

Jacob 'Ghost' Mulee reveals two problems he saw during Harambee Stars' 1-1 draw with Zimbabwe last Friday that need immediate fixing if Kenya is to become an AFCON mainstay.

“These players, especially those coming out of retirement, have conditions – but it’s not about money,” Nees said. 

“It’s about ensuring that everything around the team is managed professionally, from hotel bookings and flights to the match venue and even player selection. They want to know they are part of a setup that values professionalism.”

The federation’s willingness to make improvements played a crucial role in fostering trust among the players. Nees acknowledged that while ZIFA is a small federation with limited resources, their commitment to creating a conducive environment made a significant difference.

“Everyone is giving their best despite the challenges. The players felt they were not being short-changed, and that motivated them to give their all on the pitch,” Nees added.

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.

Under Nees’ stewardship, Zimbabwe have demonstrated a renewed sense of purpose, with Billiat’s return adding a new dimension to their play.

 The coach’s vision and the federation’s efforts to raise standards appear to have paid dividends, as the Warriors now look forward to competing in Morocco next December.

For Zimbabwe, the path to AFCON qualification was paved not only by skill but also by a commitment to professionalism, proving that a well-run setup can inspire players to achieve greatness.