Zimbabwe and Kaizer Chiefs forward Khama Billiat is the latest member of the Warriors to be ruled out of the 2021 Africa Cup of the nations (AFCON) qualifier ties against Zambia and Botswana this month, reports the Herald Newspaper.
According to the report, Billiat failed to recover in time, to be drafted for national duty, even though he was included in the preliminary squad.
Billiat was the chief tormentor when Chipolopolo played the Warriors in the reverse fixture in Lusaka at National Heroes Stadium last year.
He scored twice as Zambia lost 2-1 at home. Patson Daka scored the consolation goal for the Micho drilled side.
It’s the latest major setback to hit the warrior’s bid to qualify to the continent’s most coveted competition set for Cameroon next January.
The newspaper quotes Warriors team manager Wellington Mpandare who confirmed that because of the complicated recovery timelines, Billiat’s doctor had advised them that he will not be able to play in both fixtures.
“It’s a massive blow for the team and the nation, Billiat won’t be in the team due to injury,” said Mpandare.
“We are always in touch with his doctor, the player won’t be ready by the time we play the games.
Aston Villa midfielder Marvelous Nakamba has already been ruled out for the two crucial ties.
Other European based players ruled out of the Chipolopolo, Zebra encounters are Jordan Zemura (Bournemouth) Brendan Galloway (Luton), Admiral Muskwe (Wycombe) and Tendayi Darikwa (Wigan Athletic).
High-flying Lyon forward, Tino Kadewere, has also been ruled out together with fellow French Ligue 1 utility player, Marshal Munetsi, who turns out for Stade Reims.
Zambia play neighbours Zimbabwe on March 29 at the National Sports Stadium.
Sorry for Billiat he is a really good player.
But even without KB Zim are quite a formidable team.
Truth be told this Afcon campaign was doomed even before it started.
Coach Micho needs about 6-8 competitive games to know the players and understand their personalities, strengths and weaknesses. From here he can build.
But why be negative….
a fully fit Zambian team could still pull off a shock or two.
Sorry for Billiat , he is a good player.
Even without KB Zim are still a formidable team.
Coach Micho still getting to know his players , their personalities, strengths and weaknesses and will need about 6-8 competitive games to find his best selection.
Truth be told this Afcon campaign was doomed even before it started.
But why be negative…
A fully fit Zambian team could still pull off a shock or two.
Oh so sad
We are going to qualify that’s the fact
Lets wait and see.6points on the cards ?