FCB Nyasa Big Bullets head coach Peter Mponda says his main focus this week has been to lift the spirits of his players and restore confidence as they prepare to face city rivals Mighty Wanderers once again—this time in the FDH Bank Cup semifinal at Kamuzu Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
The clash comes just a week after Bullets suffered a rare 3-0 defeat to Wanderers in the TNM Super League last Sunday, and Mponda admits it has been a test of character for his players as they look to bounce back quickly in another high-stakes Blantyre derby.
Speaking during his pre-match press conference on Thursday, the Bullets head coach highlighted that his biggest task has been psychological—reigniting belief within the dressing room after a disappointing performance.
“My responsibility as the coach is lifting the spirits of the players. Losing 3-0 to Wanderers was a very bad performance, very discouraging to the players looking at the hard work they always put at training,” Mponda said.
“The performance on the day was flat—we were failing to do anything. My only job is to encourage them, instil belief in them that we should go again and try to get ourselves into the final.”
Mponda described last Sunday’s display as “completely different” from what the team had shown in training during the buildup, but said the players have responded positively during the week.
“Before that game I said we were ready. We were looking good in training, the team was improving, but on the day it was totally different. We’ve talked, analysed and seen where we went short. This time around we need to make our supporters happy,” he added.
The former Bullets and Malawi captain further noted that the squad has worked on key tactical and mental aspects in preparation for Sunday’s clash, aiming to deliver a stronger and more disciplined performance.
Having already lifted the Airtel Top 8 Cup this season and sitting top of the TNM Super League table, Mponda believes The People’s Team has the resilience and quality to bounce back and push for another piece of silverware.
The FDH Bank Cup semifinal kicks off at 14:30 at Kamuzu Stadium, with the winner advancing to the final scheduled for 9 November at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe.
