Peter Banda announced his return to action in style on Saturday evening, registering an assist in his first match back for FCB Nyasa Big Bullets after nearly 18 months on the sidelines.
The 24-year-old attacker, who last featured in January 2024 before undergoing shoulder surgery, was handed a place in the starting XI for the Airtel Top 8 semifinal clash against Karonga United at Bingu National Stadium.
And it didn’t take long for him to make an impact.
In the 26th minute, Banda showed his trademark vision and delivery, whipping in a perfect ball to find Chikumbutso Salima, who calmly slotted home the opener to ignite the Bullets faithful under the floodlights.
But the fairytale return hit a bump. Banda’s comeback was cut short just nine minutes later when he suffered a knock to the eye after being caught by an opponent’s elbow. He was replaced by Chawanangwa Gumbo in the 35th minute.
Despite the early exit, Banda left the pitch with a contribution that reminded everyone of his quality — and he couldn’t hide his emotions post-match.
“I’m so happy that I’m back. It’s every professional player’s dream to be playing regularly, and after almost 18 months on the sidelines, I’m excited to be part of the team again,” he said.
“It’s really encouraging that I was able to make an impact right away and provide an assist on my return.”
He also gave an update on the injury that forced him off:
“It wasn’t something of major concern, it was just an elbow to the eye, which made it hard to see clearly for a moment. But I’m okay now and ready to give even more effort. Everyone has been waiting for my return, so I know I need to fight for my place and help the team succeed this season.”
Banda’s return, though brief, was a moment Bullets fans had long been waiting for — and if his early impact is anything to go by, he’s just getting started.
