FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Under-19 claimed a 3–1 victory over Extending Hope at Kamuzu Stadium. The win keeps the youngsters firmly in the title race and adds three crucial points to their Blantyre District Youth Football League campaign.
Bullets went into the match coming off a frustrating 1–0 defeat to Agumbala FC last weekend. That setback had left the team determined to respond, and today they showed focus and resilience to return to winning ways.
First Half: Bullets’ patience pays just before the break
Bullets started brightly, immediately testing the visitors’ defence. Talented striker Jazil Bannet unleashed a fierce shot in the opening minutes that narrowly went wide, while Joel Maziya delivered an early corner that was comfortably cleared by Extending Hope.
By the 17th minute, Bullets were dominating possession, pressing high, and keeping Extending Hope pinned in their own half. In the 23rd minute, Gomezgani Maziya replaced Ahmad Ayami to help the team maintain control as the visitors began to find their rhythm.
Extending Hope had their first real chance in the 30th minute when Author Somanje met a free-kick delivery with a header, but his effort sailed over the bar. Bullets responded with another set piece in the 33rd minute, though Maziya’s delivery failed to trouble the goalkeeper.
The breakthrough came in the 38th minute. Bannet capitalized on a loose ball as Extending Hope tried to clear their lines, calmly slotting home to give Bullets a 1–0 lead. The visitors immediately threatened from a corner in the 40th minute, but goalkeeper Hassan Assima was alert to keep the ball out. Bullets took a 1–0 lead into the break.
Second Half: Bullets extend their lead before weathering a scare
Bullets made a double substitution at the start of the second half, introducing midfield dynamo Blessings Lungu and forward Darlington Fletcher for Samuel Mpinda and Kelvin Phiri. Charles Kasalanga came close to doubling the lead, but his effort was saved by Praise Nihero.
Bannet then created another chance for Fletcher via Lungu, but the striker could not convert. Bullets continued to dominate possession, patiently probing for a second goal.
Osman George was introduced for Esau Kumwenda to inject fresh legs and added attacking energy. Extending Hope briefly threatened from a corner, but Assima remained alert. Gomezgani Maziya’s free kick in the 63rd minute went wide, keeping the score at 1–0.
George doubled Bullets’ lead in the 66th minute, seizing on a loose ball and firing a clinical finish past the goalkeeper. Extending Hope pulled one back in the 78th minute through a brilliant strike from Felix Manong’a, giving them hope of a comeback.
However, Fletcher quickly restored the two-goal cushion in the 79th minute, finishing a well-timed pass from Lungu to make it 3–1.
What It Means
The victory keeps Bullets in third place in the Blantyre District Youth Football League with 50 points, just one behind second-placed Ekhaya Youth, who have 51 points. Mighty Wanderers Youth remain top as the title race heats up.
With only four games remaining, this win gives Bullets momentum and confidence as they look to close the gap on the leaders.
Coach’s Postmatch Reaction
Coach Yamikani Fodya praised the team’s effort and character:
“It was a tough match, especially coming off a loss to Agumbala, while our opponents were riding high after their win against Ekhaya. This win will boost the team’s confidence, particularly as they’ve faced several defeats recently. It’s a morale booster for the remaining games.
“As this is a development side, we’ll continue to rotate players to give everyone the chance to learn and grow. Now, it’s time to shift focus to the next match. We’ll return to training, review our mistakes, and work on improving further.”
What’s Next
Bullets now turn their attention to their next BDYFL fixture, aiming to maintain their strong form and continue closing in on the leaders.
