As Zimbabwe prepares for two pivotal 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Nigeria’s Super Eagles and Benin Republic, veteran forward, Khama Billiat has expressed confidence in the team’s ability to rise to the occasion.
With Zimbabwe sitting in fourth place in Group C with two points from two matches, Billiat sees the upcoming fixtures as a chance to prove their quality and move closer to a historic World Cup qualification.
“We have got great players at home. We have got a lot of good players and we are given the opportunity to represent the nation, and we are truly grateful,” Billiat spoke on the talent within Zimbabwe’s squad.
The 33-year-old, who has been a key figure in Zimbabwean football for over a decade, is approaching the challenge with professionalism and determination.
“We’re definitely looking forward. We’re professional, we’ve been counting days, and when we saw our names on the team, we’re really grateful.”
”And now it’s about us—are we going to apply ourselves in the best way to represent the nation?”
Zimbabwe, who were reinstated into the World Cup qualifiers after FIFA lifted their suspension in July 2023, have shown resilience in their campaign so far.
They played a goalless draw against Rwanda and a 1-1 draw with Nigeria in November 2023.
Now, they seek their first victory in the group to stay in contention for a place at the 2026 tournament.
Billiat stressed the importance of staying focused and approaching each match with full commitment.
“We take one game as it comes, and we give everything one game as it comes, and then we shift the focus to the next one.”
Zimbabwe will first face Benin Republic before taking on Nigeria, whom they held to a 1-1 draw in their previous meeting.
With experience and leadership, the Warriors will be aiming to upset the group’s frontrunners and the Super Eagles, strengthening their bid for a historic first-ever World Cup appearance.
