This Saturday, FCB Nyasa Big Bullets face Ndirande Stars in the Castel Challenge Cup Round of 16 at Kamuzu Stadium, with a place in the quarterfinals up for grabs.
The Football Association of Malawi confirmed the fixture details on Monday, and all eyes are now on Kamuzu Stadium as The People’s Team look to continue their strong run in the competition.
Bullets come into the Round of 16 following a commanding 3–0 win over Songwe Border United in Karonga during the Round of 32. Maxwell Phodo’s clinical hat-trick on Sunday proved decisive, powering Maule to a convincing victory and setting the tone for the next stage.
Ndirande Stars: A Determined Challenge
Ndirande Stars booked their Round of 16 spot after a thrilling 5–3 penalty win over Red Lions, who have since earned promotion to the TNM Super League. The result underscores the determination of Ndirande and sets up an exciting clash with top-flight Bullets this Saturday.
This matchup also marks the second time the teams meet in a knockout competition, following the FDH Bank Cup Round of 32 in 2023, when Bullets triumphed 4–0 on their way to a historic quadruple — extra motivation for Maule in this fixture.
Ambition for Silverware
Bullets, winners of the Airtel Top 8 this season, narrowly missed the TNM Super League crown, finishing as runners-up with 66 points — just three behind champions Mighty Wanderers. Now, all focus is on the Castel Challenge Cup as the club chases a second silverware for the season.
After a disappointing exit in the 2025 FDH Bank Cup semifinals, where Silver Strikers went on to lift the trophy after defeating the Nomads in the final, Maule are determined to finish the season on a high and lift the last major trophy of the term.
Focus and Preparation
With the Castel Challenge Cup entering the business end, the Round of 16 clash presents a vital test. The technical panel will look to replicate the clean sheet and attacking efficiency from the previous round, while keeping the squad fresh and balanced as the season nears its conclusion.
Ndirande Stars, who play in the second tier of Malawian football, finished sixth in the NBS Bank National Division League and will aim to make their mark against a top-tier opponent.
Kamuzu Stadium Awaits
Kamuzu Stadium will host both sides, providing a familiar competitive setting. Bullets will aim to impose their identity, deliver a disciplined performance, and advance to the quarterfinals against a determined Ndirande Stars side.
Match Details
Fixture: FCB Nyasa Big Bullets vs Ndirande Stars
Competition: Castel Challenge Cup – Round of 16
Date: Saturday, 17 January
Venue: Kamuzu Stadium
All focus now turns to Kamuzu Stadium as Bullets aim to secure a quarterfinal spot and continue building on a season defined by ambition, quality, and the pursuit of silverware.
