The stage is set for the 2025 Airtel Top 8 final, where Silver Strikers and FCB Nyasa Big Bullets will battle for glory this Sunday, 20 July, at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe. With pride and silverware on the line, the Football Association of Malawi (FAM) has confirmed the team of match officials tasked with maintaining order in what promises to be a fiery contest.
Centre Referee: Godfrey Nkhakananga
At the heart of this showdown will be Godfrey Nkhakananga, a man who knows what it takes to handle the pressure of big games. The Central Region-based official brings a wealth of experience, having officiated countless domestic and international fixtures.
Just last weekend, Nkhakananga was in charge of Bullets’ Super League clash against Civil Service United at Civo Stadium, where The People’s Team suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat. But his résumé stretches far beyond local grounds—he has handled CAF Champions League ties, AFCON qualifiers, and FIFA World Cup qualifiers, showcasing his authority on the continent’s biggest stages.
For Bullets fans, Nkhakananga is a familiar face in crucial moments. He officiated the 2022 Airtel Top 8 final against Mighty Wanderers, the 2023 semifinal with Kamuzu Barracks, and last year’s Castel Challenge Cup semifinal versus Mzuzu City Hammers.
This season, he’s already crossed paths with the defending champions twice—serving as fourth official in the Super League opener against Silver Strikers and later officiating the 1-0 win over Creck United. His reputation for calmness and control makes him the right man for this high-stakes decider.
Assistant Referee 1: Pondamali Tembo
On one flank will be Pondamali Tembo, a trusted name from Blantyre who has built his reputation on consistency and impeccable positioning. Tembo worked alongside Nkhakananga during Bullets’ semifinal triumph over Creck United and was also on duty in a league fixture against Mighty Tigers earlier this season. His presence offers assurance that the lines will be in safe hands.
Assistant Referee 2: Lameck Phiri
Patrolling the other touchline is Lameck Phiri from Mzuzu, who returns to Bullets duty for the first time this season. Though this is his first 2025 assignment involving The People’s Team, Phiri is no stranger to big occasions. His track record includes the FDH Bank Cup final against Mafco, the Airtel Top 8 semifinal versus Blue Eagles, and the Castel Challenge Cup semifinal against Mighty Wanderers. His last Bullets involvement came in November 2024 during a league encounter away to Silver Strikers.
Fourth Official: Rose Zimba
Completing the officiating team is Rose Zimba, one of Malawi’s most respected female referees. Zimba brings extensive experience from domestic competitions and has proudly represented the country in regional tournaments. Her role as the fourth official underscores the importance of fairness and professionalism in this showdown.
Match Assessor: Innocent Kaundula
Overseeing it all will be Innocent Kaundula, the match assessor tasked with evaluating the refereeing team’s performance on the big day.
As the defending champions Bullets lock horns with fierce rivals Silver Strikers, the spotlight will shine not just on the players chasing glory but also on the officials entrusted with keeping the game fair, balanced, and befitting of an Airtel Top 8 final.
