FCB Nyasa Big Bullets advanced to the FDH Bank Cup semifinals after a thrilling 2-1 victory over Kamuzu Barracks at Kamuzu Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Goals from Ephraim Kondowe and Hassan Kajoke were enough to seal the win as The People’s Team overcame a late surge from the visitors, who found the back of the net through Geoffrey Suman.
It was a result that underlined Bullets’ resilience and composure as they defended their first-half lead to move one step closer to reclaiming the trophy they last won in 2023.
Early Pressure From The Hosts
The quarterfinal clash began at a high tempo, with Bullets immediately on the front foot and dictating the rhythm of the game.
Bright Munthali nearly broke the deadlock in the 10th minute after connecting with Peter Banda’s inviting cross, but his effort went wide. Moments later, Ephraim Kondowe rose highest to meet Banda’s corner, only to see his header fly just over the bar.
At the other end, Richard Chimbamba made a sharp collection from Kamuzu Barracks’ first corner to deny the visitors an early breakthrough.
The People’s Team continued to press, and the breakthrough finally arrived shortly after the half-hour mark.
Kondowe And Kajoke Put Bullets Ahead
In the 33rd minute, Ephraim Kondowe opened the scoring with a composed finish after superb link-up play with Peter Banda, who made a dazzling run down the flank before sending in a pinpoint cross.
Two minutes later, the Maule faithful were celebrating again when Hassan Kajoke doubled the advantage, finishing calmly from Kondowe’s assist to make it 2-0.
However, the visitors pulled one back almost immediately. A quick counterattack in the 38th minute saw Geoffrey Suman reduce the deficit with a neat finish, bringing Kamuzu Barracks back into the contest.
Despite late first-half pressure from the visitors, Bullets held firm to protect their slender lead heading into the break.
Second Half Action
At the restart, Peter Mponda made two tactical substitutions, introducing Mike Mkwate and Wongani Lungu for Bright Munthali and Frank Willard to add stability in midfield.
Chimbamba Keeps Bullets In Front
Kamuzu Barracks came out pressing hard, dominating the early exchanges of the second half. The visitors threatened from a series of corners, but Chimbamba and his defenders dealt well with the danger.
The Bullets goalkeeper produced a brilliant save in the 65th minute to deny a goal-bound effort that would have levelled the score.
With the soldiers pressing, Mponda made another change, bringing in Aaron Chilipa for Yankho Singo in the 68th minute to strengthen the defensive line.
Zeliat Nkhoma came close for KB moments later but fired over the crossbar as the tension rose inside Kamuzu Stadium.
Mponda’s Tactical Changes See Out The Win
The hosts continued to defend deep under pressure, with Kamuzu Barracks pushing numbers forward in search of an equaliser.
In the 84th minute, Mponda made another double substitution, introducing Yamikani Mologeni and Maxwell Phodo for Ephraim Kondowe and Peter Banda to refresh the attacking line for the closing stages.
The visitors remained dangerous, but Bullets showed composure and tactical discipline to protect their lead. Kajoke’s late free kick went straight into the arms of KB goalkeeper Hastings Banda, and despite five additional minutes, The People’s Team held on for the victory.
What It Means
The win sends FCB Nyasa Big Bullets into the FDH Bank Cup semifinals, continuing their quest for a third title in four seasons.
It was another composed and determined performance from Peter Mponda’s men, who showcased their attacking efficiency and defensive discipline to overcome a spirited Kamuzu Barracks side.
What’s Next
The People’s Team now turn their attention to the TNM Super League, returning to Kamuzu Stadium on Tuesday for another home fixture against Mafco FC.
