FCB Nyasa Big Bullets secured the Sapitwa 4 Season Three championship with a narrow 1-0 victory over Ekhaya FC, thanks to Babatunde Adepoju’s 82nd minute goal on Sunday afternoon at Mulanje Park.
The opening half
From the outset, the match promised to be a thrilling encounter, made even more intriguing by the presence of seven former Bullets players in Ekhaya FC’s starting lineup, along with much of their technical staff boasting ties to Bullets.
The game sprang to life in the opening stages, with both sides showing attacking intent. Bullets were the first to threaten, but Ekhaya’s goalkeeper, Elias Missi, made a decisive save in the 18th minute to deny what looked like a certain goal.
The crowd erupted in anticipation when Ekhaya earned a free-kick in the 21st minute, but Stanley Billiat’s well-struck effort was expertly defended by Blessings Mpokera. Just two minutes later, Clyde Senaji made a crucial clearance to block Billiat’s attempt, which seemed destined for the back of the net.
The intensity continued to rise as Babatunde found himself in a one-on-one situation with Missi in the 26th minute. However, the Ekhaya goalkeeper once again came out on top with an outstanding save.
Despite dominating possession in the attacking third, Bullets were unable to find the breakthrough. The closest effort came in the 41st minute when Hassan Kajoke’s header from Sean McBrams’ cross was brilliantly stopped by Missi. Moments before halftime, Adepoju had another glorious chance, but the goalkeeper remained resolute, ensuring the opening period ended in a goalless stalemate.
The final half
As the second half kicked off, Bullets made a tactical adjustment, with Chikumbutso Salima replacing Kajoke. Ekhaya tested the visitors’ defense with an early corner in the 48th minute, but Bullets stood firm. The pace of the game slowed slightly, with chances becoming less frequent for both teams.
The tempo reignited in the 71st minute when Mpokera unleashed a thunderous strike from distance, narrowly missing the target. Ten minutes later, however, Bullets finally made their breakthrough. In the 82nd minute, Adepoju soared above the defenders to connect with an immaculate cross from our latest signing, Zambian left back Dominic Musonda, heading the ball past Missi and sending the Bullets fans into jubilation.
Ekhaya mounted a push for an equalizer, but Bullets’ defense remained unshakable. In the 90th minute, Henry Chiwaya was introduced in place of Maxwell Phodo as Bullets expertly managed the closing minutes.
Despite a tense period of stoppage time, the final whistle eventually blew, triggering jubilation as we celebrated our title win in their first appearance in the competition.
Under tournament regulations, the game concluded with a penalty shootout, where Bullets prevailed 8-7, adding to our victory. This result was a significant turnaround for Bullets after losing our first preseason match 2-1 against Kamuzu Barracks last week. We capped off the tournament with two consecutive 1-0 wins, defeating Creck Sporting Club and Ekhaya FC.
What’s next?
Next, The People’s Team heads to Mchinji for our final preseason friendly match against Blue Eagles at Aubrey Dimba Stadium next Sunday.
Babatunde Adepoju was recognized as the Player of the Match, while Chawanangwa Gumbo received the Player of the Tournament award.
Gilbert Chirwa’s post-match reaction
“Today was a testament to the character and determination of this team. We knew it was going to be a tough battle against a very strong Ekhaya side, but the boys showed incredible resilience and belief. From the first minute to the last, they gave everything on the pitch, and I couldn’t be prouder of their effort.
“Babatunde’s goal was a moment of pure quality, but this victory belonged to the entire squad. Winning the Sapitwa 4 Bonanza is a special achievement, and it’s a reflection of the hard work and unity within this team. We fought for every ball, defended with our hearts, and took our chance when it mattered most.”
