Zimbabwean forward Khama Billiat has expressed deep gratitude to Prophet Walter Magaya, owner of Yadah FC, for playing a crucial role in his return to professional football and his subsequent comeback to the Zimbabwe national team.
The 34-year-old striker had stepped away from international football after Zimbabwe’s 1-1 draw against Ethiopia in a World Cup qualifier on 14 November 2021.
At the time, Billiat’s focus was on prolonging his club career at South African giants Kaizer Chiefs.
However, injuries plagued much of his 2022-23 season, forcing him to miss significant playing time.
Following the breakdown of contract negotiations with Chiefs, Billiat parted ways with the club in June 2023.
Returning to his home country, the former Mamelodi Sundowns star was highly sought after by multiple Zimbabwean Premier Soccer League teams.
In the end, it was Yadah FC, owned by influential preacher Prophet Walter Magaya, that secured Billiat’s signature.
His performances at Yadah quickly caught the eye, with Billiat regaining his form and confidence on the pitch.
Billiat credits Magaya for being instrumental in reviving his career, not just at the club level but also on the international stage.
His impressive displays in domestic football prompted Magaya to encourage the forward to reconsider his decision to retire from the national team.
As a result, Billiat returned to don the Warriors’ jersey, playing the full 90 minutes in both of Zimbabwe’s recent Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Kenya and Cameroon.
Speaking about his return, Billiat expressed his enthusiasm for representing his country once again and his excitement at being back in South Africa, a place where he spent a significant portion of his playing career.
“I am excited about this opportunity and to be back in South Africa, where I spent the better part of my playing career,” Billiat said as Zimbabwe prepared to face Namibia in two crucial AFCON qualifiers at Orlando Stadium this month.
Reflecting on his career revival, Billiat was quick to acknowledge the pivotal role Prophet Magaya played in his journey back to the top.
“I am grateful to Prophet Walter Magaya, who gave me another chance at Yadah, where I’ve been able to rediscover myself and make my way back from international retirement,” he said.
“It is him who also convinced me to come out of international retirement, and here I am, back in the fold again.”
Billiat’s return comes at a crucial time for the Zimbabwe national team, as they look to bolster their attack for the upcoming AFCON qualifiers.
His experience, coupled with his recent resurgence, will undoubtedly be valuable assets for the Warriors as they aim to secure their place in the tournament.
