Newly appointed FCB Nyasa Big Bullets captain Blessings Mpokera says he is ready to lead The People’s Team in Saturday’s NBS Bank Charity Shield derby against rivals Mighty Wanderers.
Mpokera told journalists in Lilongwe on Friday morning during a pre-match press conference ahead of the season opener, where he described his appointment as a proud moment.
“Being chosen as team captain is a truly special moment for me,” Mpokera said. “I have grown with this team—from the youth ranks to the reserves, and now the main squad—so wearing the captain’s armband is a great honour and responsibility.”
The defender’s rise through the ranks to captaincy embodies the Bullets pathway, having progressed from the club’s youth and reserve sides to the first team in the 2020/21 season.
Since then, he has gone on to make close to 150 appearances, establishing himself as one of the most consistent performers and a key figure at the back.
Now entrusted with the armband, the Malawi international says leading The People’s Team is a responsibility he embraces with pride.
“FCB Nyasa Big Bullets will always remain the biggest and most successful club in this country, and leading this group of talented players is a special and historic responsibility,” he added.
Ahead of the derby, Mpokera emphasised the importance of starting the season strongly.
“Tomorrow’s game is very important for us. It will give us confidence and set the tone for how we begin our season,” he said. “As captain, I see it as an opportunity to lead by example and guide the team in the right direction.”
The Bullets skipper also highlighted the significance of the derby, stressing that performance on the day will be key.
“The match ahead is a big derby. In games like this, past records don’t matter,” he added. “What counts is performance on the day—the team that shows more determination, focus and quality will come out on top.”
Mpokera further called on the Red Army to rally behind the team as they begin the new campaign.
“I would also like to urge our supporters to come in large numbers and back us. Your support means everything to us,” he said. “When you are in the stands, you become our 12th player, and that energy pushes us to give our best. We want to make you proud and celebrate together after the match.”
The defender believes a positive result on Saturday will go beyond silverware, setting the foundation for the season ahead while building momentum.
“Winning tomorrow is not just about lifting the Charity Shield—it’s about setting the foundation for our season and creating a moment that can shape our future.”
Saturday’s NBS Bank Charity Shield clash will mark Mpokera’s first outing as captain, as he leads The People’s Team into a high-stakes derby to open the new season.
