FCB Nyasa Big Bullets head coach Peter Mponda has confirmed his starting XI for this afternoon’s FDH Bank Cup Round of 32 clash against Chilumba Barracks at Chitipa Stadium.
New signing Khumbo Banda is handed his competitive debut, starting at right-back in a reshaped defensive line that also includes Dominic Musonda and Blessings Joseph, with Richard Chimbamba trusted between the posts.
In midfield, skipper Frank Willard marshals the central zone alongside Paul Master and Chawanangwa Gumbo, who returns after weeks on the sidelines. Wongani Lungu offers width and drive to complete the four-man midfield.
The front line sees Peter Banda and Hassan Kajoke playing either side of striker Babatunde Adepoju, who makes his first start after featuring as a substitute in the league draw with Karonga United last weekend.
Mponda appears to have opted for a 3-4-3 setup, aiming to dominate the midfield while unleashing pace and creativity in attack. Khumbo Banda starts on the right side of a back three, linking up with Blessings Joseph and Dominic Musonda to form a compact defensive unit.
The midfield quartet of Willard, Master, Gumbo, and Lungu provides both protection and attacking transitions, with Gumbo’s return expected to add a creative spark.
Up top, Bullets will rely on the movement of Peter Banda and Kajoke to stretch Chilumba’s defence, while Babatunde offers aerial dominance and physical presence through the middle.
The bench provides balance, with youngsters Austin Chirambo and Edward Thengo gaining cup experience, while attackers Maxwell Phodo, Ephraim Kondowe, and Bright Munthali provide firepower options.
Sean McBrams could also feature in what would be his second FDH Bank Cup appearance, having last played in this competition against Moyale Barracks last season.
Goalkeeper Innocent Nyasulu and winger Chikumbutso Salima are not included in the matchday squad, opening the door for other squad members to step up in this knockout tie.
Kick-off is at 14:30 CAT at Chitipa Stadium, as Bullets look to start their FDH Bank Cup campaign on a winning note.
