FCB Nyasa Big Bullets will face Ndirande Stars in the Castel Challenge Cup Round of 16 on Saturday. The People’s Team are looking to continue their strong cup form following a 3-0 win over Songwe Border United in Karonga.
Ahead of the fixture, interim head coach Gilbert Chirwa spoke to club media about the team’s preparations, tactical approach, and squad availability as they get ready for their first 2026 game in Blantyre.
Here’s what Chirwa told the media ahead of the weekend clash:
On how the team has been preparing for Ndirande Stars
“Indeed, we started our preparations on Wednesday. On Tuesday, the players rested because they travelled back to Blantyre from Karonga. We have had good sessions focusing on combinations, finishing, and our play overall.”
On lessons taken from the Songwe game into this R16 fixture
“The boys played with confidence, created lots of chances, and I think they will do the same against Ndirande Stars. Of course, cup games are difficult. We have advised the players to be serious and focused from the first minute. There is no such thing as a small team in knockout football.”
On avoiding complacency against the second-tier side
“It is always tricky playing teams we don’t know well. Ndirande Stars have youngsters and will give their all. We have to stamp our authority from the beginning. We’ve covered all scenarios in training, and I believe the boys will rise to the occasion.”
On the role of patience during the game
“We have the experience to manage different situations. We can’t predict everything that will happen on the day, but we are ready to adapt and get the job done.”
On the tactical approach
“Cup games are unpredictable. We’ve covered a lot in our preparations, including how we want to control the game. I can’t reveal everything, but the boys understand the plan and are ready to execute it.”
On managing situations if the game remains scoreless for long periods
“We’ve worked on finishing and creating combinations. Even if we have to grind out the result, our approach is positive and effective. The players know how important it is to convert chances when they come.”
On rotation and squad management
“Our focus is one game at a time. We’ve worked on attacking plays and delivery from the flanks to support the forwards. Players will be rotated where necessary, and we are confident in the squad depth.”
On Maxwell Phodo’s role after his first hat-trick
“Maxwell is a versatile player who can operate as a number 9 or on the flanks. When we switched him to the centre, he thrived and scored three goals. He is an important asset for the team moving forward.”
On the vice captaincy
“We have several leaders in the team. Frank Willard is the captain, with Blessings, Mike, and Singo also taking leadership roles. That’s why you saw Mike Mkwate take the armband after Willard was substituted.”
On Chikumbutso Salima and other squad updates
“Chikumbutso travelled to Karonga with us, but doctors advised against using him after a knock, so he remains out. Mpokera has made a good recovery and is training with the team. Peter Banda picked up an injury against Songwe and will miss this game. Andrew Jovinala is currently in Lilongwe, and Lameck Gamphani is in Dedza; I will follow up with the team manager on their situations.”
