When she walked into the FCB Nyasa Bullets Women dressing room as a 14-year-old in 2023, few would have predicted just how quickly she would rise. Today, at only 17, Ioulia Yiannakis is emerging as one of the most exciting young talents in the squad — blessed with blistering pace, sharp technique, a trademark left-to-right cut, and already a derby-winning free-kick to her name.
This is the story of a Greek-Malawian teenager stepping into her breakthrough season at The People’s Team.
A Greek-Malawian Rooted In Home
Born and raised in Malawi to a family of Greek origin, Ioulia carries a cultural blend that shapes both her personality and her approach to the game.
“My background helps me grow and see how football is played differently. Here football is played much quicker,” she says. She describes herself as “quiet, kind and passionate,” someone who enjoys football as much as she enjoys learning from those around her.
Like many players, football simply became part of her childhood.
“When boys were playing in primary school, I was going to play with them too,” she recalls.
Her first true football influence was Lyson, a long-time family aide she grew up with, whose constant encouragement helped shape her early passion. That early support was later strengthened by her parents’ unwavering belief in her. Away from home, Lyson is also a staunch Bullets supporter who rarely misses Bullets Women matches — and is probably Ioulia’s number one fan.
Joining Bullets Women at 14
Without a youth structure beneath the senior side, Ioulia stepped straight into elite football when she joined Bullets Women at just 14.
“I was excited because the team was welcoming, but I was also nervous. The way they were playing, they were better than me,” she admits.
Still, she settled quickly, embraced the environment and learned from the experienced players around her.
“My first year was amazing. I enjoyed playing football and seeing different people.”
Those early years served as the foundation for the growth that followed.
2025: A Bright Breakthrough
This season has marked a turning point — more minutes, more confidence, and more impact.
“It always feels good as I continue working hard to get back into the team because everyone is doing their best,” she says.
That work led to the moment that would define her rise.
A Derby Moment To Remember
In October’s Blantyre derby against Mighty Wanderers Queens, the match was tense, goalless and heading for a stalemate. Then captain Zainab Kapanda handed the match-defining responsibility to the teenager.
“Zainab told me she trusts me to take it. If it wasn’t for her, I don’t know if I’d have had the confidence,” Ioulia says.
One clean strike later, the ball was in the top corner. Bullets Women 1–0 Wanderers Queens.
“After I scored, I was excited to contribute to the winning team,” she reflects.
It was the moment the nervous teenager became a derby hero.
Watch: Full Maule Talks Episode with Ioulia Yiannakis
A Playing Style Built on Pace, Intelligence and Expression
Ioulia’s game blends speed, movement and decision-making.
“I use my pace a lot… sometimes I make a defender think I’m going one way but actually go the other,” she explains.
Her explosiveness is intentional — built through strength work, plyometrics, swimming and repetition. That dynamism is central to how she sees the game.
She feels most dangerous cutting inside from the wing.
“Definitely playing wide and cutting inside… I can see more of the pitch and create chances.”
Her set-piece ability is another growing weapon.
“I focus on putting the ball where it can make the biggest impact.”
A Young Player Growing in Confidence
Balancing school and football is a challenge she manages with discipline.
“If I train at the club during the day, I won’t train again at home — I’ll study. I need school too,” she says.
This season, she has focused on improving her shooting and decision-making.
“My shooting has really improved. It’s about consistency and making better choices,” she adds.
She also studies senior players’ movements during matches.
“When I’m on the bench, I pay attention to their decisions so I can apply what I learned.”
The Scorchers Dream
Her ambitions stretch beyond club football.
“I would really love to represent the Scorchers, starting at Under-19 level. It would be a huge honour,” she says.
With her rapid development, a call-up no longer feels far away.
What the Bullets Badge Means to Her
For Ioulia, wearing the Bullets crest is deeply personal.
“My father used to take me to matches. My grandfather was also a big fan. Wearing the Bullets badge means representing my family and everyone who loves this club.”
Her favourite moment so far?
Winning the league title in the 2024 season season.
“It was incredible. I learned so much about teamwork and discipline.”
Her Message to Young Girls
To young girls dreaming of playing football, she offers simple but powerful advice:
“Anything is possible if you put your mind to it. Be confident and enjoy yourself. If I can do it, you can also do it.”
The Future Is Bright
In just two years, Ioulia has gone from a shy 14-year-old stepping nervously into a senior dressing room…
to a composed 17-year-old match-winner whose derby moment will live long in the memory.
Her story is only beginning. And with her pace, technique and determination, she stands out as one of the brightest prospects in Malawi’s women’s football.
