FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Under-19 faced Mighty Wanderers Youth in a thrilling Blantyre mini-derby at Mpira Stadium, but the hosts narrowly prevailed 3–2 in the Blantyre District Youth Football League on Monday.
The first-round meeting in the mini-derby had ended in Bullets’ favour with a 3–1 victory, setting the stage for another competitive encounter.
First Half: Quick Fire Goals Set the Tone
Bullets started brightly, showing clear intent to take the lead. Early in the match, Jazil Bannet’s effort forced a smart save from the Wanderers’ goalkeeper. The hosts responded with a free kick that sailed over the bar, while Aubrey Dickies’ subsequent free kick for Bullets was comfortably held by Lazaro Luwis.
Wanderers eventually broke the deadlock when Amin Yusufu capitalized on a defensive lapse in the Bullets box in the 16th minute.
Bullets responded immediately. Captain Charles Kasalanga calmly finished after a precise setup from Samuel Mpinda to restore parity.
With the score at 1–1, Yamikani Fodya’s boys gained momentum. Blessings Lungu forced a save after being set up by Kasalanga. Moments later, Hopeson Phiri pulled off a brilliant stop to deny Wanderers, and Bullets’ defence cleared the resulting corner.
Midway through the half, Ahmad Ayami launched a quick counterattack, but the young Nomads managed to clear the danger. Bullets continued enjoying possession, pushing for a second goal while effectively cutting out threats from the hosts.
The young Maule ended the first half on a high, creating chances and keeping Wanderers on the back foot.
Halftime: 1–1
Second Half: Back-and-Forth Drama
The second half began with Bullets testing the Wanderers goalkeeper from a free kick, as Bannet rattled the crossbar with a powerful effort.
Wanderers regained the lead through Harron Mpoto, who slotted the ball into the near post after winning possession in Bullets’ half.
The hosts kept the pressure on. Simplex Kapusa forced a shot wide, while Bullets made a tactical double substitution, bringing on Esau Kumwenda and Joel Maziya to inject fresh energy.
Shortly after, Blessings Lungu came close to scoring, but the Wanderers defence managed to clear the danger.
Bullets equalized when substitute Kumwenda finished expertly following a precise assist from Emanuel Mapundi.
However, Wanderers quickly regained the lead as Aubrey Manyengo capitalized on a moment of disorganization in the Bullets defence.
A corner by Wanderers sailed harmlessly over the bar, while Bullets continued to search for another equalizer.
In the 73rd minute, Fodya made a second double change, introducing Duncan Kumbuyo and Emanuel Kaswaswa.
The new combination created opportunities. Kumbuyo headed wide after a Kaswaswa corner was cleverly played on by Kumwenda.
Despite persistent pressure in the final minutes and an added eight minutes of stoppage time, Kumbuyo missed a golden opportunity to level the score after a slick counter involving Bannet and Kasalanga.
Full Time: Wanderers Youth 3–2 FCB Nyasa Big Bullets U-19
Coach’s Reflection
Head coach Yamikani Fodya shared his thoughts after the contest:
“It was a strong performance from both sides. We are pleased with how the boys approached the game. While the result is important, our main focus remains on player development and ensuring that what we teach in training is applied effectively on the pitch,” commented Fodya.
He added: “We saw moments of creativity, determination, and teamwork, which are very encouraging. Of course, there are areas for improvement—defensive organization and finishing opportunities are key points we will address.
Now, it’s back to training. We will review the game, correct our mistakes, and continue preparing the team for the next challenge. Every match is an opportunity to learn and grow, and we are committed to helping the players reach their full potential.”
Despite the narrow defeat, the mini-derby offered another important developmental test for the young Bullets, who demonstrated character, bravery in possession, and a willingness to compete against the league leaders.
What It Means
The result saw Mighty Wanderers Youth extend their lead at the top of the standings with 57 points. Bullets remain firmly in second with 46 points. Ekhaya Youth sit third on 45 points, and Manchester Motors Spares are fourth on 43 points.
What’s Next
Bullets U19 will return to training this week as they prepare for their next assignment in the Blantyre District Youth Football League.
The team aims to bounce back and build on the positive moments from the mini-derby, continuing their pursuit of the league title and focusing on player development, teamwork, and tactical growth in upcoming fixtures.
