FCB Nyasa Big Bullets returned to TNM Super League action in explosive fashion on Sunday afternoon, edging Civil Service United 4-3 in a dramatic seven-goal thriller at Kamuzu Stadium.
A breathtaking hat-trick from Chikumbutso Salima powered The People’s Team to a vital victory that sends Maule back to the summit of the league table.
First Half: Five-Goal Swing and a Fiery Response
Civil made the brighter start and took the lead early on, with Chikaiko Batison finishing inside the opening ten minutes after being played through by Righteous Banda.
Bullets responded superbly.
A few moments later, in the 16th minute, Peter Banda brought the stadium to its feet when he equalised with a composed finish after Wongani Lungu unlocked the defence with a brilliant threaded pass.
Civil restored their advantage midway through the half when Batison pounced on a loose clearance to make it 2-1. The setback prompted an early tactical adjustment from Peter Mponda as Babatunde Adepoju replaced captain Frank Willard just past the half-hour mark, with the striker taking over the armband to lead the team on the pitch.
The response was immediate.
Two minutes after the change, Bullets were level again when Chikumbutso Salima reacted quickest to fire home the rebound after Blessings Mpokera’s header was saved.
Momentum continued to swing Maule’s way and, shortly before the break, Salima completed the turnaround by burying a Chrispin Mapemba corner to put Bullets 3-2 ahead. Civil’s heavy protests over the decision saw their head coach, Abas Makawa, sent off for dissent.
A breathless first half ended with The People’s Team leading.
Second Half: Salima Completes His Hat-Trick as Bullets Show Heart
Bullets resumed with control, introducing Yamikani Mologeni at the restart and switched to a back-four as we also looked to strengthen midfield composure. The hosts continued to push and soon extended their lead.
Early in the half, Babatunde’s initial effort was saved, but the striker recovered quickly, showing great awareness to square the rebound for Salima, who tapped in to complete a stunning hat-trick and make it 4-2.
The visitors, however, refused to fade. With a little under 20 minutes to play, Batison completed his own hat-trick to reduce the deficit to 4-3, setting up a tense finale.
Bullets showed character in the closing stages, defending as a unit, winning crucial duels and managing the tempo as Civil pushed numbers forward.
There was late concern when Salima was forced off with an arm injury, replaced by Blessings Joseph near the end of regulation time, but the champions remained composed.
After four minutes of added time, the referee’s whistle confirmed a massive victory for Bullets.
Player of the Match
Salima produced a brilliant, match-winning performance, driving at Civil with confidence and delivering three decisive goals when Bullets needed them most. His hat-trick lifted The People’s Team through a tense, high-pressure game and showcased his growing influence in the squad.
He deservedly walked away with the Player of the Match award and the matchball, capping off a superb afternoon at Kamuzu Stadium.
What It Means
The win sends FCB Nyasa Big Bullets back to the top of the TNM Super League on 53 points. Mighty Wanderers’ 2-2 draw against Silver Strikers opened the door, and Bullets seized the opportunity with a spirited display.
With seven matches remaining, the title race is finely poised — but Sunday’s performance was a powerful reminder of Bullets’ hunger and fight.
What’s Next
Bullets will now switch focus to a midweek away fixture as The People’s Team travel to Lilongwe to face Kamuzu Barracks on Thursday. The match forms part of a demanding run-in as Maule continue their push in the TNM Super League title race.
