First assistant coach Gilbert Chirwa addressed the media ahead of FCB Nyasa Big Bullets FDH Bank Cup quarterfinal showdown against Kamuzu Barracks at Kamuzu Stadium on Saturday.
Among others, he spoke about how the team has responded well in training and how Bullets are determined to deliver in front of home fans, despite the recent FIFA international break.
Read everything the Bullets vice coach told the media:
On returning to action after breaking for almost two weeks
“It’s not happening for the first time. It has been happening, and this is a similar one that has come at a time when we are playing Kamuzu Barracks in the FDH Bank Cup. It’s a difficult but important match for us. But looking at the way the players are doing in training, we are very okay, we are very ready, and are hoping to have a good game,” said Chirwa.
On Facing Kamuzu Barracks Again
“We are very happy with the way the boys are responding in training. Talking about the good record over Kamuzu Barracks, it’s a cup game, and we are not going to base this one on the previous meetings.
We just have to take it as it comes, telling the players to be serious and not complacent, and we know for sure they will do the job for us.”
On Expectations From Kamuzu Barracks
“Beating them 4-0 in the league is not what will happen on Saturday. This is a cup game — a totally different game — and the approach has to be serious.
We’ve told the players to stay focused from the first whistle and to make the most of every chance we create. We know cup games are never easy, but we’ve reminded the boys to stay disciplined and take this game seriously.”
On Handling the Physical Battle
“Very true. All the army teams are physical, but we are ready for them. We know the plans we have are good — it’s a plan that will take us through.
We are aware that it won’t be easy, but we have a team that can handle the challenge.”
On Consistency in the Second Round
“The key is the discipline of the players, the technical panel, and the unity amongst us. That’s the key.
I said it before that we lost 14 to 15 players — it’s not easy to build a team after that. We lost the entire defence, including Gomezgani Chirwa, Nickson Nyasulu, and left back [Alick Lungu], who joined Ekhaya FC.
We are rebuilding, and it’s going well. The discipline and unity in the group are what have brought this consistency.”
On Returning National Team Players
“All the players who were with the national team are back and ready for selection after training with us this morning.”
On Babatunde Adepoju’s Flames Debut
“Nothing much. It was his first game, and for one to settle down, he needs more time. Being the first game, he got a feel of international football, and I believe he will do well in future games once he settles.”
On Chikumbutso Salima’s Availability
“He is back, he has been training with the team, and I am sure that he will be available against Kamuzu Barracks.”
On Injury Updates
“Andrew Jovinala is back but not fully fit. The same applies to Crispin Mapemba — he’s back but not yet ready for selection. I’m sure they will be available in a few weeks.”
Looking Ahead
The People’s Team will be aiming to book a place in the FDH Bank Cup semifinals when they face Kamuzu Barracks at Kamuzu Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Having lifted the trophy in 2022 and 2023, Bullets will be eager to build on their recent league form and continue their pursuit of another piece of silverware under Peter Mponda’s technical team.
