FCB Nyasa Big Bullets head coach Peter Mponda has provided early updates on the squad ahead of Sunday’s TNM Super League home clash against defending champions Silver Strikers at Kamuzu Stadium.
The tactician confirmed that Chrispin Mapemba remains sidelined with a long-term injury, while Lameck Gamphani is in contention for a recall. New signing Aaron Chilipa continues to impress after making his first full senior start, and winger Peter Banda is steadily building sharpness after playing back-to-back full matches since returning from surgery.
Mapemba Still Out
Mponda confirmed that Chrispin Mapemba remains unavailable as he continues his recovery from a long-term injury. The rest of the squad is fully fit and in contention for selection.
“The preparations are going on very well. All the players are training apart from Chrispin, who is still recovering. We are in a good space and the confidence is booming in the team,” Mponda said.
Gamphani In Contention
Mponda also addressed questions about Lameck Gamphani, who has missed recent matchday squads.
“He is part of the team, he is a good player. But we also have Peter Banda, Chikumbutso Salima, Babatunde Adepoju, Hassan Kajoke and many more. Everyone is on top of his game. He is in contention for selection, but we will see what happens at the end of the week,” the coach explained.
Chilipa Impresses
New left-back Aaron Chilipa, who made his first full senior start last weekend against Dedza Dynamos, has also caught the eye of the technical panel.
“He is a very good player. Very confident on the ball and strong in tackling. A good addition to the team,” Mponda said.
Banda Building Fitness
The head coach also commented on Peter Banda, who recently returned from shoulder surgery and has now played back-to-back full matches for the first team.
“He is not yet at the peak level we want him to be in terms of fitness, but slowly he is getting there. The decision to bring him in was a risk, but slowly, it is paying off,” Mponda added. “Let me commend the club for signing him while he was injured and later sent him for surgery, not many teams can do that.”
