Katsande Sparks Debate Over Musona & Billiat As Zimbabwe Face Egypt & South Africa At AFCON 2025

Willard Katsande Sparks Row After Tipping Ex-Kaizer Chiefs Stars Musona & Billiat To Play At AFCON 2025

Former Kaizer Chiefs hardman Willard Katsande has triggered a storm of debate after suggesting that ex-Amakhosi stars Knowledge Musona and Khama Billiat should still feature for Zimbabwe at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025. His remarks, posted on 24 October 2025, have divided football fans across the country, with some welcoming the idea and others arguing that the Warriors must now look to the future.

Katsande Calls For Experience To Be Valued

Katsande, who spent a decade at Kaizer Chiefs and is one of Zimbabwe’s most capped midfielders, made his appeal on X.

He wrote:

“They still have a ROLE to play in the next AFCON. Great EXPERIENCE which needs protection and support from our people.”

His comments quickly drew attention, attracting more than 20,000 views. Katsande stressed that the experience of Musona and Billiat could be vital in navigating a high-stakes tournament like AFCON.

Musona, now 35, remains Zimbabwe’s all-time top scorer and has been active in recent World Cup qualifiers, where he found the net in key matches. Billiat, on the other hand, has struggled to rediscover his form in Scotland, where he joined earlier this year. Despite his dazzling past at Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs, critics say his performances have dipped.

Fans React To Musona And Billiat

Several fans sided with Katsande, particularly when it came to Musona. David Moyo, using the handle @DivhaMoyo, argued:

“Yes they still have a role but not as starters. Musona is still playing decently he does have a shout to start. We cannot say the same for Billiat. Mukomana apera hake (the young man is finished).”

Another fan, Eddie (@Jayamupfumii), echoed that view, saying:

“Maybe Knowledge. Khama no longer as good as he was. Musona needed in dire situations but definitely not a starter. I think we lack a baller in mid, a proper ‘#10’. Andy Rinemhota is being missed but I think Walter can fill that gap.”

Some also stressed that while Musona’s leadership is still valuable, his minutes should be carefully managed. As @zimtechguy put it:

“Yes, but they cannot play a full 90 minutes. There are a few games I saw them holding back the team.”

Others were blunt in their rejection of Katsande’s call. @sisamkhabela stated:

“If we being honest, they do not. We need to move past these players. Munetsi, Hadebe, Nakamba’s experience is enough.”

Charly (@CharlyM__17) pointed to Billiat’s recent struggles:

“Did you see how Khama played vs Namibia, Cameroon, SA and Nigeria? This guy is a legend but we can do without him. He almost missed the penalty too. Maswanhise is way above his level right now.”

Zimbabwe’s AFCON 2025 Group

The Warriors face an uphill battle in Group B of AFCON 2025, which runs from 22 to 29 December 2025. Zimbabwe will take on giants Egypt, rivals South Africa, and Angola in what many are calling one of the tournament’s toughest groups.

According to the Confederation of African Football (CAF), the top two teams in each group will advance to the round of 16, along with the best four third-placed teams.

This format leaves Zimbabwe with a fighting chance, but most fans agree it will require a perfect balance of experience and youthful energy to compete. For some, this is where Musona and Billiat’s knowledge of high-pressure games could be useful. For others, it is a reason to prioritise younger players who can handle the pace and intensity against such formidable opposition.

Dhewa (@dchenjerai001) summed up the wider debate:

“Experience is good. Equally moving forward is good and accept that circumstances have changed. Loyalty isn’t always competence. May the best team based on merit go out and shine. Go Warriors Go.”

With AFCON only weeks away, Katsande’s comments have ensured the spotlight remains firmly on whether Zimbabwe’s veterans will make the final squad — and if they can deliver in one of the toughest groups of the tournament.