Ahead of Sunday’s FDH Bank Cup Round of 32 tie against Chilumba Barracks at Chitipa Stadium, FCB Nyasa Big Bullets head coach Peter Mponda spoke to the media on Friday following the team’s first training session in the Northern Region.
The gaffer addressed the team’s long journey up North, preparations for the knockout clash, the importance of bouncing back from last weekend’s 3-3 draw against Karonga United, his take on fan behaviour, injury updates, and the inclusion of recent signings in the travelling squad.
On the first session in Chitipa
“It was a very long journey, but the boys managed it well. We arrived on Thursday afternoon and rested. On Friday morning, we had our first training session, and they responded very well despite the trip.”
On facing Chilumba Barracks
“It’s an important game for us. It’s a cup match, so we have to be cautious. Chilumba Barracks may be an unknown side to us, but they’ve earned the right to play in the Round of 32. We respect them, but we also need to bounce back from the disappointing result against Karonga United. The performance was good, but the result overshadowed it, and we must respond positively.”
On playing at Chitipa Stadium for the first time
“It’s good that our supporters in Chitipa will finally have a chance to watch the team live. Normally, our games in the North have been in Karonga, but now they can see us here. The pitch is playable, and we’re looking forward to the occasion.”
On the FDH Bank Cup Record
“Every competition is important for us, whether it’s the FDH Bank Cup, the Airtel Top 8, or the league. We approach each game with the same mindset — to win and progress.”
On fan violence after the Karonga draw
“I was very surprised by the reaction. We played very good football and scored beautiful goals, but in the last 15 minutes, we conceded in ways we shouldn’t have. I understand the frustration, but stoning the bus — especially when it was empty — was unacceptable. The club had to spend a lot to fix it, and such actions can create fear among the players. We need our supporters to stand with us, not against us.”
On the impact of fan behaviour on players
“As a coach, I’m not personally affected, but the players are. If they play with fear, they can’t give their best. We always need the fans’ support, even when results don’t go our way.”
On Khumbo Banda and Bright Munthali
“Fitness-wise, they are okay. We are still assessing how well they can link up with the rest of the squad. This is an important game, so while they are in contention, we must be sure they are ready to contribute.”
On injury updates
“Andrew Jovinala and Blessings Mpokera are 50-50 for this match — we don’t want to risk aggravating their knocks. Crispin Mapemba is still out with a long-term injury.”
On Chikumbutso Henderson
“Three weeks after signing him, I told management that it had been a panic decision because we lost most of our defence at the start of the season and needed numbers quickly. We appreciate the effort he gave, but ultimately we agreed it was best to move on.”
On approaching an unfamiliar opponent
“The players don’t need extra motivation. We just need them to respond from the last result and make sure we finish the job this time. Professionalism is key.”
On possible squad reinforcement
“We are always looking at the market, but we don’t sign for the sake of it. Any addition must improve the quality we already have.”
On starting strong
“We want to take control of the game early, just like we did against Karonga United, but this time we must finish the job. The belief in the squad is there — now we have to show it on the pitch.”
On expectations from Chitipa fans
“The welcome so far has been great. We’re looking forward to seeing big numbers from Chitipa, and even supporters from Zambia and Tanzania, coming to rally behind us on Sunday.”
