FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Women edged Mighty Wanderers Queens 1-0 in a tense first-ever Blantyre women’s derby of the 2025 NBM Women’s Premiership, securing three vital points in style.
The contest lived up to its billing, offering fans end-to-end action and fierce midfield battles. The opening half ended in a stalemate, with both sides creating opportunities but unable to find the breakthrough.
The game was finally decided in the 88th minute when captain Zainab Kapanda won a free kick just outside the box and handed the ball to 17-year-old substitute Ioulia Yiannakis. The youngster stepped up with confidence and delivered a brilliant strike into the top corner, leaving the Wanderers goalkeeper rooted to the spot and sparking wild celebrations in the Bullets camp.
Head coach Maggie Chombo praised her side’s effort and mental strength after the derby triumph.
“I’m really proud of the girls’ effort today. We didn’t start as sharply as we wanted, but their commitment and hunger were outstanding,” Chombo said. “It was a tough derby against quality opposition, but our substitutions made a real impact and helped us shift momentum our way.”
Chombo further acknowledged that her side is still managing injuries but expressed confidence in her team’s direction.
“We are taking each game as it comes and continuing to develop our squad. This win boosts morale and gives us confidence heading into the next fixtures,” she added.
The victory lifts Bullets Women to third place with 13 points, setting up a midweek clash with league leaders Silver Strikers Ladies, who maintained their perfect run with a 2-1 win over Civo Women in the Lilongwe derby on the same Sunday afternoon.
The Maule Ladies will now look to build on their derby triumph as they continue their push for top spot in the NBM Women’s Premiership.
