FCB Nyasa Big Bullets endured a busy and eventful weekend across multiple competitions, with contrasting outcomes but clear signs of progress across the ranks.
The women’s side continued their push for a podium finish despite a narrow setback, the first team produced a stirring comeback to reach the Castel Challenge Cup quarterfinals, and the Under-19s responded strongly to stay in the title conversation.
The reserves, meanwhile, have now entered a second week of off-season break.
Women: Narrow Defeat but Podium Still in Sight
The Maule Ladies were in action on Chilembwe Day at Mpira Stadium, hosting Civil Service Women in an NBM Women’s Premiership encounter.
Despite a spirited and disciplined display, the hosts suffered a narrow 1–0 defeat in a tightly contested match.
The result, however, does little to undermine what has been a strong league campaign. Maggie Chombo’s side remains third on the log with 31 points and has one crucial fixture remaining.
Silver Strikers Ladies have already been crowned champions with 45 points, followed by Ascent Soccer Academy on 38 points, while MDF Lioness complete the top four with 28 points.
Bullets will now travel to the Central Region to face the champions on 25 January in the final matchday of the season. The focus will be on cementing third place and concluding the campaign on a positive note.
First Team: Second-Half Fight Seals Quarterfinal Spot
The People’s Team returned to action at Kamuzu Stadium, hosting National Division League side Ndirande Stars in the Round of 16 of the Castel Challenge Cup.
After a difficult first half, Bullets went into the break trailing 1–0. However, they showed character and championship mentality after the restart. A dominant second-half performance turned the contest on its head.
Ephraim Kondowe netted the equalizer, while in-form striker Maxwell Phodo added a well-taken brace to seal an impressive 3–1 comeback victory.
The victory sends Bullets into the quarterfinals, where they will face Mighty Tigers. Tigers advanced after edging Civil Service United 3–2 on penalties following a 1–1 draw at Mpira Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
With momentum building and confidence growing, Gilbert Chirwa’s side will now shift focus to preparations for another demanding knockout challenge.
Under-19: Strong Response Keeps Title Push Alive
On Saturday, the young Bullets side bounced back in style with a convincing 3–1 victory over Extending Hope at Kamuzu Stadium.
The response followed a narrow 1–0 defeat against Agumbala FC in their previous outing.
The result lifts Yamikani Fodya’s boys to third place on 50 points after 26 matches, sitting just one point behind second-placed Ekhaya Youth, who have 51 points from the same number of games.
Mighty Wanderers Youth continue to lead the standings with 61 points, while Agumbala FC complete the top four with 45 points.
With the title race intensifying, Bullets will return to training on Tuesday. Preparations will begin for their next league fixture next weekend, with the focus on maintaining momentum and pushing further up the table.
Reserves: Off-Season Recovery and Reflection
The reserve side continue enjoying the off-season after concluding their campaign two weeks ago in third position.
The break will allow Heston Munthali’s squad to recover, reflect, and regroup as they lay foundations for the next competitive cycle.
