FCB Nyasa Big Bullets head coach Peter Mponda applauded his players’ determination and patience after their hard-fought 2-0 win over Mighty Tigers at Kamuzu Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
Currently in pursuit of reclaiming the TNM Super League title they lost last season, Bullets needed two late goals from Hassan Kajoke and Babatunde Adepoju to break down a resilient Tigers side and maintain their place at the top of the standings.
“The performance was very good in terms of how we controlled the ball,” said Mponda. “Yes, we had some trouble in the attacking third unlocking their defence, but overall the players did very well. I’m delighted with how patient they were in such a tough game.”
Despite struggling to create clear chances for much of the match, Mponda was impressed with how his team stayed composed and committed to the task.
“Even though we didn’t take our chances properly, the players kept believing. We knew we had to dig deep and do whatever it took to get the three points. On another day, we could have dropped points, but we didn’t—and I’m proud of that effort.”
The gaffer also praised the impact of his substitutes, who played a crucial role in turning the game around in the second half.
“We identified how Tigers were set up and decided to make changes that would force them deeper and allow us to use our pace in advanced areas,” he explained. “It worked. Things weren’t easy, but the boys stayed focused and trusted the process. Credit to them.”
Reflecting on the team’s sluggish start, Mponda attributed it in part to the long international break that followed their Blantyre derby defeat.
“The break affected us. After losing the derby, we needed games to help us bounce back quickly. I believe this was a crucial win, and I’m confident our performance in the next game will be even better.”
Up next, The People’s Team travels to Bingu National Stadium this Saturday to face Karonga United in the Airtel Top 8 semi-finals.
