FCB Nyasa Big Bullets first assistant coach, Gilbert Chirwa, addressed the media on Monday morning ahead of the team’s TNM Super League home fixture against Mafco FC at Kamuzu Stadium on Tuesday afternoon.
The midweek clash comes just two days after The People’s Team booked a place in the FDH Bank Cup semifinals with a 2-1 victory over Kamuzu Barracks at the same venue.
During the press conference, Chirwa discussed the team’s readiness for the quick turnaround, provided an injury update, and shared his thoughts on the ongoing title race and the players’ mentality as the season enters its decisive stages.
On Team Preparations
“After playing a cup game against Kamuzu Barracks, we had a session on Sunday and another today. The boys are okay, they are ready. However, we have one problem because Yankho Singo pulled a muscle against KB, and he is definitely out of this match.
The rest of the players are fit, and the fact that we are playing at home gives us an advantage. We’ve talked to the boys about staying focused, working on our chances, and fighting for a win.”
On Losing Yankho Singo At A Crucial Stage
“For sure, we will miss him. He’s a good player, but we have several others who can step in. We’re covered and ready to play Mafco as well as Mighty Wanderers on Sunday. The boys are training well and looking sharp.”
On Expectations Against Mafco
“In the second round, all teams fight harder — they play for survival and for points. We expect a tough match, but as Bullets, we’re ready and determined to collect maximum points.”
On Resting Key Players Against Kamuzu Barracks
“We indeed rested some of the players — not just Babatunde and Salima, but also Innocent Nyasulu. This has been our approach since the start of the season.
We rotate players to manage fatigue, especially in a long season. You might not see some faces on Tuesday, and that’s part of our rotation strategy to keep everyone fresh.”
On The Players’ Energy And Focus
“The international break affects every team, but we can’t use it as an excuse. We’ve spoken to the players, and they know what’s expected.
We’ve started well after the break — we beat KB — and now we’re focused on Mafco. We know it’ll be tough, but we’re ready and have no excuses.”
On Focusing On Mafco Before The Blantyre Derby
“After playing KB on Saturday, we trained again on Sunday and today. This keeps the stamina and spirit up. The boys are used to this schedule, and we believe they’ll deliver another good performance on Tuesday.”
On The Form Of Kondowe And Kajoke
“At the start of the season, some players struggled for form, but we encouraged them to fight for their places.
You can now see the results — they’re competing, pushing each other, and performing well. That spirit and competition are what keep us strong and consistent.”
On Bright Munthali’s Return
“He had been out for a while, but he’s improving. We’ve been monitoring him closely in training. He got minutes against Chilumba and again versus KB. He’s progressing well, and that’s why sometimes he’s on the bench and sometimes in the stands.”
On Handling Pressure During The Run-In
“As Bullets, we always prepare through training — mentally, physically, and morally.
The boys know how demanding this stage of the season is. We’ve made sure they’re mentally strong and focused, and we expect them to put up a gallant fight. The opposition will come ready, but so are we.”
Match Details
Fixture: FCB Nyasa Big Bullets vs Mafco FC
Competition: TNM Super League
Date: Tuesday, 21 October 2025
Venue: Kamuzu Stadium
Kick-off: 14:30
