FCB Nyasa Big Bullets return to Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe this Saturday for the Castel Challenge Cup final against Goshen City Dedza Dynamos.
This will be the third visit to the facility this season. Maule started with a 1-0 league win over Silver Strikers in the TNM Super League and followed it up by retaining the Airtel Top 8 Cup with a 4-3 penalty victory over the same opponents earlier in the campaign.
With silverware at stake and the chance to secure a second trophy of the season, Maule are fully focused on completing the mission.
Dedza Dynamos have earned their place in the final through determined performances and will arrive motivated.
After lifting the Airtel Top 8 earlier this campaign, Maule now have the chance to reinforce our dominance in domestic knockout competitions.
The road to the final has demanded discipline, consistency and resilience — qualities that have defined our journey and will once again be required in the capital.
FORM GUIDE
Bullets have carried strong momentum throughout the Castel Challenge Cup campaign. Our journey began with a commanding victory over Songwe Border United in the Round of 32, setting the tone with attacking sharpness and control.
In the Round of 16, the team showed composure to overcome Ndirande Stars and book a place in the quarterfinals.
A disciplined and mature performance against Mighty Tigers followed, securing progression to the semifinals. At Kamuzu Stadium, Maule produced another assured display, defeating Mzuzu City Hammers 2-0 to seal a place in the final. Defensive solidity and clinical finishing proved decisive.
Across the competition, Bullets have combined tactical discipline, defensive organisation, and attacking efficiency to reach this stage, scoring ten goals and conceding one.
Dedza have also demonstrated resilience. They opened with victory over Creck Sporting before edging past Karonga United in the Round of 16. A strong performance against Ekhaya FC earned them a semifinal berth.
They showed character to progress past Blue Eagles via penalties after scoring a dramatic late equaliser. Both sides arrive in Lilongwe battle-tested and determined, setting the stage for a compelling final.
HEAD-TO-HEAD
Recent meetings between the two sides favour The People’s Team. In the 2025 TNM Super League first-round encounter, Bullets secured a narrow 1-0 victory before delivering a commanding 3-0 win in the reverse fixture.
In knockout competition, Maule also recorded a convincing 5-1 victory over Dedza Dynamos in the FDH Bank Cup semifinal, further highlighting our ability to rise on big occasions.
Since 2021, Bullets have won four of the last eight league meetings between the two sides, drawing three and losing just once — a record that reflects consistency and control in this fixture.
History favours Maule. But finals are decided on the day. Focus, discipline and execution will determine who lifts the trophy.
COACH’S THOUGHTS
Interim coach Gilbert Chirwa has emphasised preparation and mentality ahead of the final.
“It is a cup game and cup games are always difficult, but we are well prepared. The players understand what is at stake, and we are ready to give everything on the pitch,” he said.
The technical team has placed strong emphasis on game management, intensity in key moments, and maintaining concentration for the full ninety minutes. Reaching the final is motivation — but the objective remains clear: finish the job.
TEAM NEWS
Aaron Chilipa remains unavailable as he continues his recovery programme. Chrispin Mapemba is also sidelined while progressing with rehabilitation.
The rest of the squad is fit and available for selection heading into the final.
MATCH DETAILS
Fixture: Goshen City Dedza Dynamos vs FCB Nyasa Big Bullets
Competition: Castel Challenge Cup Final
Date: Saturday, 21 February 2026
Venue: Bingu National Stadium, Lilongwe
Kick-off: 15:00
MATCH OFFICIALS
The final will be officiated by Mayamiko Kanjere as centre referee. He will be assisted by Lameck Phiri and Evance Musonda, with Zebron Lengani serving as fourth official. Goodall Chinjoka has been appointed as match commissioner.
HOW TO FOLLOW
Supporters can follow comprehensive match coverage across the club’s official digital platforms. Live updates, behind-the-scenes content, and post-match reaction will be available throughout the day as Maule chase glory in Lilongwe.
The match will also be broadcast live on Mpira TV, with full coverage including pre-match build-up and post-match analysis for supporters watching from home.
Maule know what it takes to win finals. Saturday presents another opportunity to demonstrate that winning mentality. Fill Bingu National Stadium, bring the noise, and stand with the badge as we fight for Castel Challenge Cup glory.
