Former Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns talisman Khama Billiat has spoken about the key lesson he drew from the time he spent under coach Pitso Mosimane, who he said was the ‘right coach at the right time.’
Billiat’s time at Sundowns was the major highlight of his career, then under the mentorship of Mosimane. He joined the club in August 2013, signing a five-year deal from Ajax Cape Town, and had a blast until 2018 when he crossed floors to join Chiefs.
During Mosimane’s era at Masandawana, Billiat was unstoppable as the veteran tactician turned the club into a powerhouse in South African and African football.
Under Mosimane’s tactical wizardry, Billiat thrived as a vital cog in the legendary ‘CBD’ trio – Leonardo Castro, Khama Billiat, and Keagan Dolly – a frontline that left opponents in their dust.
It was during this time that the Zimbabwean reached the peak of his career, winning a litany of accolades that include the 2016 PSL Player of the Season award and being named runner-up for the 2016 CAF African Player of the Year [based in Africa] award.
The 35-year-old also helped the club win several PSL league titles, the 2015/16 CAF Champions League title, and the 2016/17 CAF Super Cup, among other achievements.
‘I HAVE SO MUCH RESPECT FOR COACH PITSO MOSIMANE’: SAYS BILLIAT
In an Off The Pitch interview, Billiat opened up about how Mosimane brought out the absolute best in him as a player. Despite his smaller build, Mosimane saw something special and helped Billiat realise it.
“I vividly remember coach Pitso saying, you are a talented player, but I think you’re used to enjoying the game without the pressure of winning, without the hunger to be the best,” Billiat said.
“He drilled it into me that ‘we’re not here to just play, we’re here to dominate, to leave a mark. We play to win championships, we play to score goals, we play to break records and etch our names in history,’ he would say.
“That conversation was a game-changer for me. He was the right coach at the right time. It was like he flipped a switch and suddenly, I wasn’t just playing for myself, I was playing to represent something bigger. I have always had immense respect for coach Pitso for recognising my potential and pushing me to unleash it.”
Meanwhile, Mosimane’s reign at Sundowns was nothing short of legendary. He took the helm in December 2012 and left in September 2020, leaving behind a trophy cabinet overflowing with trophies, including five PSL crowns and the coveted 2016 CAF Champions League trophy. He built a dynasty before making the big move to Al Ahly.
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