Gilbert Chirwa addressed the media ahead of Sunday’s FDH Bank Premiership fixture against MAFCO FC at Joyce Chitsulo Stadium in Mwanza.
The FCB Nyasa Big Bullets head coach discussed the team’s preparations, injury concerns, squad depth and expectations as The People’s Team look to secure their first win of the campaign.
Read the full press conference below.
Coach, how has preparation been this week, and how is the squad shaping up?
Preparation has been going well this week. At the moment, we have four players on the injury list—Frank Willard, Chrispin Mapemba, Ahamad Kung’unde and Misheck Billiat—so they are not available. Apart from that, the rest of the squad is in good condition.
We have been working on correcting some of the issues from our last match in Lilongwe, where we created many chances, scored two goals, but also conceded two. Our focus has been on improving our game management.
This will be a historic first match in Mwanza. What does it mean for the team?
It means a lot to us as a team. We travelled to Mwanza to assess the stadium and the pitch. There is a lot of excitement from supporters in Mwanza, Zalewa, Balaka and even across the border in Mozambique.
For us, getting back to winning ways is very important. We understand that no game in the league is easy, so we have encouraged the players to stay focused and make the most of their chances.
How tough will it be playing against MAFCO in a new environment like Mwanza?
It will definitely be tough. Every match in the league is competitive, and MAFCO is a strong team that we cannot underestimate. We have emphasized to the players the importance of staying focused for the entire match. The response in training has been positive, and we believe we are ready to deliver.
Are you under pressure going into this match after the draw in Lilongwe?
There is always pressure going into every match. However, we were encouraged by the team’s performance in the last game, especially our ability to create chances. Our main task now is to boost the players’ confidence so they can convert those chances into goals.
What key areas have you focused on improving this week?
Our main focus has been on improving our finishing and defensive organisation. In the previous match, we scored goals but also conceded unnecessarily. We are working hard to ensure we both score more and defend better.
How impressed are you with the players who have come into the squad?
We have tried different combinations, and the new players have adapted well. We are impressed with their performances so far. The squad now has good depth, and we believe it will help us improve our results.
How has the situation around league sponsorship affected the team?
It is very disturbing for everyone—players, coaches and the club. Sponsorship is very important as it supports many aspects of the game. However, we have discussed it as a team and decided to focus on what we can control. We hope the issue will be resolved soon through dialogue.
How important is it to secure your first win of the season?
It is very important. We have only played one match and collected a point. If we want to compete for the championship, we need to start collecting maximum points as early as possible.
There has been some external pressure—what is your response to those questioning your position?
Everyone is entitled to their opinion. What matters most is our work as a team. Our focus is on improving results, and the best response will be positive performances and wins.
How are you managing players to avoid injuries over a demanding season?
That is one of the reasons we brought in new players. We plan to rotate the squad to manage workloads, as we know the season will be demanding.
Can you give us an update on injured players?
Mike Mkwate has already returned and trained with the team. However, Frank Willard is still out, along with Mapemba and Kung’unde. Billiat also picked up a minor knock.
How are you managing competition within the squad?
We closely monitor players during training, which helps us decide on the starting lineup. We also make use of substitutions and squad rotation depending on fitness, form and tactical needs.
Is the team close to achieving the desired balance and cohesion?
It is still early to give a definite answer, but we are seeing good progress. We will continue monitoring and improving.
Will playing in Mwanza affect your approach?
I do not think so. We have already assessed the pitch, and it is in good condition. The players should be comfortable, and we expect them to perform well.
Any thoughts on officiating?
I prefer to focus on my team. We have spoken about officiating issues before, but nothing changed. My focus now is on how we play, create chances and convert them into goals.
How important is it to start strong tactically against MAFCO?
It is very important. A strong start builds confidence and allows us to control the game, maintain possession and create chances. We believe the players are capable of doing that.
What kind of atmosphere are you expecting in Mwanza?
We expect a big crowd from different areas. It will be a great atmosphere, and we want the players to rise to the occasion and play for the win.
Finally, what would you like to see on Sunday as a sign of progress?
I want to see the team believing in themselves, playing with purpose, controlling the tempo, creating chances and scoring goals.
