Khama Billiat has reacted to receiving a mouthwatering cash bonus of $6,500 (R118 000) from the Zimbabwean government.
It has been a rather eventful 2024 for Billiat, as he not only made his return to Zimbabwean club football with Yadah FC but also came out of retirement for the national team in August.
Read: 'Special diet' created for Ahly players for Bucs game
The former Kaizer Chiefs star had initially retired from the Warriors in 2021 following that year's Africa Cup of Nations.
After delivering impressive performances for Yadah in the Castle Premier League and receiving persuasion from several Zimbabwean football figures, the now 34-year-old immediately made himself available for Zimbabwe's 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
Billiat started in all six qualifiers, playing home and away against Group J opponents Cameroon, Kenya, and Namibia, with the new national team coach showing significant trust in the ex-Mamelodi Sundowns attacker.
The Harare-born player contributed a goal and an assist during those six matches, including scoring the winner against Namibia at Orlando Stadium in October in a 1-0 victory.
Ultimately, Zimbabwe secured qualification for AFCON 2025, finishing as Group J runners-up behind the group leaders, Cameroon.
This achievement has been viewed as a major success in Zimbabwe, with the government pledging $1 million (R18.1 million) towards the Warriors' preparations for the tournament next year in Morocco.
To further reward the team, the Zimbabwean government issued player bonuses, with each squad member receiving $6,500 (R118 000) for their role in securing the nation's first AFCON qualification since 2021, according to Soccer24.
Reacting to the cash bonus, Billiat said: "We're happy to be here, and to be recognised by the president, who has showed the love.
"We appreciate, and the support is just amazing."
Read: 6-year-old fan slapped with 'stadium ban'
By Lukhanyo Mtuta
Follow him here on X