“We knew it was going to be a tough one,” reflects Khama Billiat following Zimbabwe’s narrow win over a resilient Somalia on Tuesday. “This was a must win for us. We started slowing but I think we were anxious about the deficit. But at the end I am happy, and the Zimbabweans are happy we won.”

The Warriors went through to the group stages of the 2022 World Cup qualifying rounds after overcoming a 1-0 first leg deficit by beating Somalia 3-1 to progress through 3-2 on goal aggregate.

Khama received an SOS call-up on Monday. Zimbabwe under threat of losing out on the qualification to the coveted World Cup qualifying rounds.

“I wish to thank the club for acceding to the call up. As you know I was nursing an injury, but the club and the national team management agreed to my release. We thought the match would provide a good platform to test my recovery,” he says.

Billiat scored in injury time to bring the National Sports Stadium to rapture. “It was a long time coming,” remarks Billiat. “After all, it was a team effort and I am glad I contributed. Nothing comes close to representing the nation, especially if you consider the situation we found ourselves in.”

Billiat rejoined his Kaizer Chiefs teammates on Thursday morning to resume his preparation for the much-anticipated Absa Premiership tussle against the enthusiastic Polokwane City.

“I feel great,” says the talisman in conclusion. “I just did my regeneration this morning, and I am ready to play a role against City. I am looking forward to it.”

The match is billed for FNB Stadium on Saturday, 14 September. Kick-off is at 18:00. Tickets are sold at Computicket for R40 per ticket.