FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Under-17 have intensified preparations ahead of their departure for Zambia on Wednesday, where they will represent the club at the Kafue Celtic Under-17 Tournament in Lusaka from 5-8 June.
The U17s will join teams from across the region in a competition expected to provide valuable international exposure and an opportunity to test themselves against different styles of football.
Training sessions have focused on sharpening tactical organisation, fitness levels and team chemistry as Fodya’s boys enter the final stages of preparation for the tournament.
The competition represents another important milestone in the club’s commitment to youth development, with the tournament offering players an opportunity to gain international experience at a crucial stage of their football journey.
Head coach Yamikani Fodya is pleased with the progress made during preparations and believes the squad is heading in the right direction ahead of the trip.
According to Fodya, the coaching staff has focused on ensuring the players are physically, tactically and mentally prepared for the challenge awaiting them in Lusaka.
“The preparations have been encouraging and the players have responded well to everything we have asked of them. We have been working on different aspects of our game and the focus now is on making sure we are fully ready for the tournament.”
In addition to the tactical work on the training pitch, the coaching staff has also placed emphasis on team cohesion as the players prepare for their first international assignment together.
The tournament will bring together youth teams from different countries, creating a competitive environment that will expose the players to new challenges both on and off the pitch.
For Bullets, the trip forms part of the club’s broader commitment to creating pathways that expose young players to high-level competition and accelerate their growth through experiences beyond Malawi’s borders.
The tournament is also expected to attract scouts and youth football stakeholders from across the region, presenting the players with an opportunity to showcase their talent on a broader stage.
Fodya is confident the experience will benefit the team regardless of results, with the immediate focus remaining on putting the finishing touches to their preparations before departure.
“The players understand the opportunity that lies ahead of them. We still have a few things to fine-tune before we travel, but the attitude and commitment they have shown in training gives us confidence going into the tournament.”
As departure day approaches, the young Bullets remain focused on the final stages of preparation as they look forward to testing themselves against regional opposition and proudly representing both the club and Malawi in Lusaka.
