FCB Nyasa Big Bullets head coach Wedson Nyirenda has named his first starting XI as The People’s Team begin the defence of their Airtel Top 8 crown against Ekhaya FC at Bingu National Stadium.
Nyirenda takes charge of The People’s Team for the first time since his appointment earlier this week.
Bullets make three changes to the side that started the 1-1 FDH Bank Premiership draw against Moyale Barracks a fortnight ago, with Emmanuel Kaunga, Chawanangwa Gumbo and Prince Chiumia coming into the lineup.
Innocent Nyasulu starts in goal behind a side captained by Blessings Mpokera, while Kaunga returns directly to the starting XI after missing Bullets’ last outing through injury.
Chiumia is handed a starting role in defence as Nyirenda looks to begin his tenure with a positive result in the first leg.
Paul Master, Gumbo and Wongani Lungu are among those named in midfield, with Hassan Kajoke, George Chaomba and Maxwell Phodo leading the attack.
There is further encouragement for Bullets with Frank Willard returning to the matchday squad after several weeks on the sidelines, providing another option in midfield.
Bullets will be looking to establish an advantage before the return leg as they begin another quest for Airtel Top 8 silverware.
Bullets XI
24 Innocent Nyasulu (GK), 4 Blessings Mpokera (C), 8 Paul Master, 9 Hassan Kajoke, 11 Clever Kalambo, 19 Wongani Lungu, 20 Maxwell Phodo, 22 George Chaomba, 26 Emmanuel Kaunga, 29 Chawanangwa Gumbo, 31 Prince Chiumia.
Substitutes
Substitutes
1 Pilirani Mapira (GK), 2 Yamikani Mologeni, 21 Andrew Jovinala, 30 Aaron Chilipa, 6 Frank Willard, 12 Madalitso Safuli, 28 Misheck Billiat, 7 Peter Banda, 13 Ephraim Kondowe.
Match Details
Match: FCB Nyasa Big Bullets vs Ekhaya FC
Competition: Airtel Top 8
Stage: Quarterfinal First Leg
Venue: Bingu National Stadium, Lilongwe
Kick-off: 17:00
