Katsande backs Billiat and Musona to inspire Scottland FC in Africa

Former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Willard Katsande believes Khama Billiat and Knowledge Musona can play a decisive role in helping ambitious Zimbabwean side Scottland FC make a deep run in the CAF Champions League.

The two former Kaizer Chiefs stars returned to the continental spotlight by scoring in The Mamelodi Sundowns of Zimbabwe’s 2-0 home victory over Petro de Luanda in the second-round, first-leg tie.

Both players are 36, but Katsande says their continued influence at the highest level reflects their discipline, commitment and understanding of the responsibility they carry as senior figures in Zimbabwean football.

“I think it goes down to discipline and dedication to the game and they know what it takes, because I once told them that, ‘Guys don’t leave the game early, because remember you are the role models of the next generation, whenever they play with you and they see you live, they are being motivated,’” Katsande told KickOff.

Katsande said Billiat and Musona had become important ambassadors for the domestic game since returning to Zimbabwe, with their presence helping to raise its profile and standards.

“You are just being ambassadors to revive our football and you are adding value’. If you can see after them coming to Zimbabwe football, it has taken a giant step from where it used to be and for them to come to the party in the big league, the CAF Champions League.”

Their goals against Petro de Luanda also demonstrated the value of their experience, according to Katsande, who hopes they can help the team progress through the competition.

“For them to come and chip in goals where it matters, I think their experience in Africa is rubbing into the guys. I’m hopeful that they are going to play an instrumental role for the team to go all the way, to claim what they really deserve. The bottom line is they are there to inspire the next generation,” Katsande said.

The former Amakhosi midfielder added that the pair remained in strong physical condition and continued to set an example for younger players.

“And you could see that they are still looking healthy, they are still looking sharp. I watched them, and they are very impressive. Even the boys I coach, I always make reference to them, that ‘If you want to be a good footballer, just follow those guys, there is a lot of stuff you are going to learn from them,’” he added.

Katsande’s comments come as Billiat and Musona lead the charge for a Zimbabwean side with ambitions of making an impact in the CAF Champions League, while also providing an example for the next generation of the country’s footballers.