Gilbert Chirwa was full of praise for his players after guiding FCB Nyasa Big Bullets to the Castel Challenge Cup final following a 2–0 win over Mzuzu City Hammers at Kamuzu Stadium on Sunday.
Our head coach highlighted patience, focus, and persistence as the key ingredients in the victory, particularly after Bullets dominated possession for large periods without an early breakthrough.
“In football, if you are a good team, you must create chances. We created many in the first half but didn’t score early. We told the boys to stay focused because a goal can come at any moment. They kept fighting, and the two goals took us to the final. I wasn’t worried—it was just a matter of time,” Chirwa said.
The People’s Team eventually broke the deadlock late in the first half, with Wongani Lungu striking in each half to punish his former club and seal the win.
Chirwa also acknowledged the challenge posed by Mzuzu City’s youthful, energetic squad.
“We knew they were a strong team. They are well organised and competitive, but our players managed the game brilliantly—scoring two goals and playing excellent football,” he added.
The coach singled out the team’s defensive discipline and game management, noting how Bullets limited the visitors to very few clear chances while remaining composed under pressure.
“It was a good afternoon for my boys. It was not an easy game, but they stayed focused, followed instructions, and got the result,” stated the former Bullets defender.
With this win, Maule now turn their attention to the Castel Challenge Cup final against Goshen City Dedza Dynamos at Bingu National Stadium on 21st February, aiming to lift another trophy.
