Ahead of our return to TNM Super League action this Saturday at Kamuzu Stadium, head coach Peter Mponda faced the media to share insights on our preparations, player updates, mid-season recruits, and expectations against Dedza Dynamos.
Here’s the full press conference transcript:
On the team’s level of preparedness after the international break
“The players are very fit, and they are excited to be back in competitive football. Unfortunately, the international break came at a time when we were gaining momentum. When we picked up this good form, we had this disruption, but we played a friendly match in which the players performed very well. The guys we left behind also did a great job, so we’re happy with where we are now.”
On returning to Kamuzu Stadium for the first time in a month after the 3-3 draw against Karonga
“Everyone was happy with how the team performed in the first 70 to 80 minutes. It’s just the last ten minutes where things changed. But that was the best performance since I arrived here [as the head coach], and it was unfortunate that the result didn’t reflect that. We were encouraged by the performance—how we created chances and dominated play.”
On dropping points at home compared to the strong away form could be attributed to pressure
“It’s not about pressure at home. Pressure is part of the job. Yes, we’ve dropped points at Kamuzu, but that’s also helped push us in away games. We’ve reached 40 points after 17 games. In 2023, when we won everything, we had 40 points after 19 games. That tells you we’re in a good place.”
On giving the home fans a result after the Karonga incident
“I won’t talk about the fans, I’ll talk about my players. That game against Karonga was very good in terms of performance. Our focus now is on collecting points, especially at home, to keep fighting for the championship.”
On the availability of Yankho Singo and Chikumbutso Salima
“Yankho is still out due to illness. Salima is back, training, and fit—he’s in contention for a place in the starting eleven. He’s a very important player for us, and I’m glad he’s available again.”
On how the team responded during the international break
“That’s why we organised a friendly against Mangochi Select to maintain match fitness. It was a good game and gave us momentum. We’re topping the table now and want to keep that position. This is our opportunity to continue pushing.”
On the impact of new signings Khumbo Banda, Bright Munthali, and Aaron Chilipa
“As a coach, I always look for ways to improve the team. Mapemba is still out, so we brought in Aaron Chilipa at left back. He’s already impressed in training and is fit to feature, although we’ll ease him in. He’s a good addition, no doubt.”
On expectations from Dedza Dynamos
“They’re coming to Kamuzu and have taken points from here before. We all know how important this match is. We want to strengthen our position at the top and this is our chance to do that.”
On the need to maintain momentum after Northern Region success
“The boys are in their zone right now. Despite the setback in the last home game, they performed well, and their belief is back. We’ve worked hard to reach the top of the table and now we want to open up a lead.”
On Clever Mkungula’s absence
“He had some personal concerns, but we talked and cleared the air. I told him he’s an important player. Yes, there’s competition, but it’s up to him to fight for his place. I enjoy working with him and I still believe in him.”
On the general injury update
“Only Singo and Mapemba are ruled out. The rest of the squad is fit and fighting for positions. As a coach, I’m happy to have 98% of the team available.”
Match Day: Saturday, 13 September 2025
Opponent: Dedza Dynamos
Venue: Kamuzu Stadium
Kick-off: 14:30 CAT
