As we gear up for our TNM Super League clash against Blue Eagles this Sunday at Kamuzu Stadium, head coach Peter Mponda sat down with the media on Thursday.
Mponda outlined how the team has shifted focus from the Airtel Top 8 Cup triumph to this vital league encounter. He addressed squad competition, the departure of captain Lloyd Aaron, and highlighted key players ready to step up.
He also spoke on the challenge posed by Blue Eagles, managing a tight fixture schedule, and the absolute necessity of securing three points on home turf.
Here is the full interview with Coach Mponda:
Coach, how has the team switched gears from lifting the Airtel Top 8 Cup to preparing for Sunday’s league battle against Blue Eagles?
Preparations are progressing strongly. The players have responded well and understand that while we celebrated our Airtel Top 8 success, the job is far from done. Training intensity has ramped up — we want to send a clear message that we won’t rest on past glory. We expect more, and the squad is ready to deliver.
Lloyd Aaron has left the club. How is the team coping with his departure?
We’ve unfortunately lost our captain, someone who was highly influential both on and off the pitch. It’s certainly a big loss for us. But I strongly believe we have players within the squad who can step up and fill that gap. Yes, the boots are big, but we have capable individuals ready to rise to the occasion and deliver for this club.
If there’s one area where we’ve always had depth, it’s central midfield. Now it’s time for the players who haven’t been featuring regularly to step forward and help the team. I’ve always said their time would come, and now is that time—they need to show up and take us forward.
Who will take over the captain’s armband?
We had a vice captain in place and several senior players in the squad. This team is not short of leaders. We’re still deliberating on who takes over the armband, but I have full confidence in the leadership group we have.
With almost the full squad available, how are you managing competition for places after standout performances in the Airtel Top 8 final?
The players delivered well in the final, and their commitment in training has been top class. We won’t make drastic changes — only tweaks where necessary. The squad is focused and ready for the challenge.
Dominic Musonda impressed in the final. How has that affected your backline plans?
Dominic stepped up under pressure and showed exactly why he deserves a spot. His experience and leadership stood out. Now, it’s about maintaining that level and cementing his place. I’m very pleased with his performance.
Blue Eagles are fifth on the table and gave us a tough time in pre-season. What’s your expectation for Sunday’s game?
They’re a strong, consistent side — their recent win in Karonga shows that. But this is Bullets, and we own Kamuzu Stadium. We are coming for all three points, no excuses.
You sit second with 27 points, trailing Wanderers by five but with a game in hand. How vital is Sunday’s match?
Every match matters at Bullets. We don’t watch other teams — we focus on ourselves. To win this league, we must keep collecting points, especially at home. We will fight hard for the three points.
How do you balance squad rotation with the congested fixture list?
We knew the schedule would be demanding from the start. We’re prepared and will take each game as it comes. No excuses — just professional, committed performances.
Update on Chrispin Mapemba?
He’s still on the sidelines for now. Our focus is on the players available and facing Blue Eagles this Sunday.
