Peter Mponda has made three changes to his lineup as FCB Nyasa Big Bullets gear up for another high-stakes Blantyre Derby — this time in the FDH Bank Cup semifinal against Mighty Wanderers at Kamuzu Stadium.
The head coach welcomes back Yankho Singo and Chrispin Mapemba from injury, while Babatunde Adepoju, who started from the bench in last weekend’s league meeting, returns to the starting XI.
Khumbo Banda and Andrew Jovinala are not part of the matchday squad this afternoon, while Paul Master, who was withdrawn early in the previous derby, starts from the bench after six consecutive starts.
In goal, Innocent Nyasulu retains his place, with Blessings Mpokera, Yankho Singo, and Aaron Chilipa forming the defensive line.
Mponda is expected to set up his side in a fluid 1-3-4-3 formation, with captain Frank Willard anchoring midfield just ahead of the back three. Chawanangwa Gumbo, Wongani Lungu, and Maxwell Phodo will operate centrally, while Chrispin Mapemba and Chikumbutso Salima stretch play on the flanks to support Babatunde Adepoju, who leads the attack.
The key highlight is the return of Mapemba, who starts for the first time in nearly a year after recovering from a long-term injury sustained last November.
The semifinal arrives just a week after the two rivals met in the TNM Super League, where Wanderers triumphed 3-0. Mponda’s charges will now be eager to produce a strong response and move a step closer to lifting a second domestic trophy this season, having already claimed the 2025 Airtel Top 8 Cup.
The bench also offers a wealth of experience and firepower. Hassan Kajoke and Ephraim Kondowe bring proven attacking quality and the ability to change the game in an instant, while Mike Mkwate and Paul Master add creativity and control in midfield.
Defensively, Yamikani Mologeni and Henry Chiwaya provide solid options should Mponda choose to adjust his setup, with Sean McBrams and Bright Chirambo offering energy and pace in the wide areas.
The People’s Team booked their place in the last four after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Kamuzu Barracks in the quarterfinals, courtesy of goals from Ephraim Kondowe and Hassan Kajoke. Bullets will now look to extend their impressive record in cup competitions and secure a spot in the FDH Bank Cup final at Bingu National Stadium next Sunday.
With a final spot and city bragging rights on the line, The People’s Team will count on the Maule faithful to turn Kamuzu Stadium into a sea of red as they push for another memorable cup afternoon in the Capital City.
