The Absa Premiership champions were given a second chance in the tournament following the elimination of AS Vita, who were disqualified having fielded an ineligible player.

Sundowns face Algerian side ES Setif in their opening fixture, while they will also face Enyimba and Zamalek in Group B.

Despite his coach Pitso Mosimane playing down expectations, Billiat admits he is excited for the continental showpiece.

‘Playing against the biggest sides in the competition is always exciting for any player because that’s where you really get the opportunity to test yourselves individually and as a collective,’ Billiat told the club’s website.

‘We have done well in the domestic league, with some of the players even transferring that form to national team level. Now we have been given a second chance in the Champions League and have to show that we deserve to be there.’

Billiat then spoke of his ambition to take Sundowns to the summit of African football.

‘When I joined Sundowns playing in the Champions League was one of the things that made me want to play for this club. I also know that the club’s vision is to conquer Africa, therefore I believe we have an obligation to take the club to where it belongs.’

Billiat has managed 12 goals and 17 assists across all competition for Sundowns this term.

The ES Setif game will be played at the Stade 8 Mai 1945 on Saturday, June 18. The match kicks off at 23:15.