FCB Nyasa Big Bullets head coach Peter Mponda praised his side’s character and adaptability after edging Karonga United 2-1 to secure a place in the Airtel Top 8 final for a record sixth time on Saturday evening at Bingu National Stadium.
The People’s Team took the lead through Chikumbutso Salima’s 24th-minute strike but were pegged back by Karonga United’s equaliser in the 52nd minute. However, the defending champions responded swiftly, with Kajoke netting the winner in the 64th minute to secure a hard-fought victory and a place in the final.
While celebrating the result, Mponda admitted he was not entirely satisfied with the overall performance, particularly in defence, and acknowledged that Karonga United could have punished his side had they been more clinical in front of goal.
“I am delighted with the outcome, but disappointed with our performance this evening,” Mponda said post-match. “Defensively, we were unconvincing, affording Karonga United excessive space. Our conversion rate was better, and that’s what won us the game, but in terms of chances, they had more.”
“We were just okay in possession. Karonga were well-organised and calculated in their counterattacking approach. Fortunately for us, they didn’t take their chances.”
The semifinal win marks Mponda’s second successive Airtel Top 8 final appearance with a different team, having led Silver Strikers to last year’s final. He also commended Oscar Kaunda and his Karonga United squad for their fearless display.
“Oscar Kaunda deserves credit for assembling a youthful team that plays fearless football. The team looks very promising, and unfortunately, they couldn’t beat us today.”
On Peter Banda’s Return
The game also saw a long-awaited return for Peter Banda, who was named in the starting XI and played his first match for The People’s Team in over a year. Mponda said the decision to start Banda wasn’t a gamble.
“In life, one must take calculated risks, but this wasn’t one,” Mponda explained. “We’ve been training with Peter and we know his level. He proved he was ready, and his performance today speaks for itself.”
“It’s just unfortunate he had to come off after sustaining another injury from an elbow, but in terms of his output — he delivered what we expected.”
Looking Ahead
Bullets will face the winner between Silver Strikers and Civil Service United, who meet in the second semifinal on Sunday. Mponda expects a completely different challenge in the final.
“It’s going to be a completely different game. Today, we made a big effort to close gaps and manage Karonga’s attacking rhythm. In the final, we’ll need to revisit our approach and fix the issues we faced today.”
Before the final, Bullets are set to return to TNM Super League action on Wednesday against Moyale Barracks at Kamuzu Stadium, followed by the FCB 30th Anniversary clash against Silver Strikers next weekend in Lilongwe.
