ZIMBABWE began their quest to qualify for the 2025 African Cup of Nations finals with a goalless draw against Kenya in a Group J match at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, Uganda Friday afternoon.

Much focus was on Khama Billliat who was playing his first match after announcing his return to the national team.

Warriors coach Michael Nees saluted Billiat after the match.

“For me, Billiat was the best player on the pitch yet he is 34. He tracked and won balls,” said Nees.

The 34-year-old showed some flashes of brilliance and even created a chance that was fluffed by Marshal Munetsi in the first half.

It was a bad day in office for Munetsi who also made a number of stray passes. Much was also expected from Derby starlet Tawanda Chirewa, but the 20-year-old struggled in the number 10 role.

Prince Dube also had an effort thwarted by Kenya keeper Patrick Matasi.