Substitute Ioulia Yiannakis stole the show on Sunday afternoon, curling home a spectacular late free kick that handed FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Women a 1-0 victory over Mighty Wanderers Queens in the first-ever Blantyre women’s derby of the 2025 NBM Women’s Premiership.
The derby win not only gave Bullets local bragging rights but also underlined the team’s growing confidence as they continue to climb the table.
The young attacker came off the bench to produce the game’s defining moment in the 88th minute, curling a sensational effort into the top corner after captain Zainab Kapanda won a free kick just outside the box. Her composure and technique left the Wanderers goalkeeper rooted to the spot, sparking wild celebrations from the Maule bench.
Reflecting on being named Player of the Match, the 17-year-old said she was proud to have made a decisive contribution.
“It feels very good. I’m really happy to have contributed to the team’s win and to help us climb higher in the table. It means a lot, and I’m very happy,” she told Bullets Media.
Her calmness under pressure reflected maturity beyond her years, especially in a heated derby atmosphere.
“It really means a lot. I just wanted to come in, do my best for the team, and I’m glad I was able to make an impact,” she added. “It was a great feeling to score, and I think as a team we played very well. It feels really good; it means a lot.”
Yiannakis also shared what was on her mind before being introduced in the second half.
“I was just watching how my teammates were playing and trying to support them as much as I could from the bench. I was ready to come in and give my all when the chance came.”
Her performance capped off another strong collective display from Maggie Chombo’s side, who have now collected four wins in seven matches. Looking ahead, Yiannakis believes the team must keep the momentum going.
“We just have to keep pushing, motivate each other, and hopefully win the next game,” she said.
The Maule Ladies now sit third on 13 points and will look to carry their derby momentum into Wednesday’s showdown with unbeaten leaders Silver Strikers Ladies at Mpira Stadium.
