Charles Kasalanga scored twice as FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Under-19 bounced back in style on Saturday morning, securing a commanding 4-1 victory over Airspot United at Kamuzu Stadium.
The win ended a run of two straight defeats and lifted the Junior Maule to 22 points in the Blantyre District Youth Football League, reigniting their momentum in the title race.
First Half Action
Bullets started brightly and took the lead in the 12th minute. Prince Jamali released Steven Bika, who squared for Kasalanga to finish with composure for 1-0.
Airspot threatened an equaliser in the 20th minute through Wunji Zgambo, who headed wide. The miss was punished three minutes later when Hassan Madula doubled Bullets’ advantage, turning home Kasalanga’s cross after good work from Blessings Lungu.
The visitors pulled one back in the 37th minute, with Zgambo setting up Precious Masanje to make it 2-1. Lungu could have restored the two-goal cushion before the break but missed a one-on-one, leaving the score 2-1 at halftime.
Second Half Action
The Junior Maule came out firing after the restart, with Bika and Madula going close before Zgambo wasted a golden chance for Airspot.
In the 54th minute, Bullets introduced Jazeel Bannet to freshen up their attack. The change soon paid off as Kasalanga struck again in the 63rd minute, converting Lungu’s cross to complete his brace and stretch the lead to 3-1.
With the hosts in control, coach Yamikani Fodya made a triple substitution in the 70th minute, introducing Esau Kumwenda, Duncan Kumbuyo and Osman George for Lungu, Madula and Kasalanga.
The substitutes combined late on to seal the result. George found Bannet in the 80th minute, and the forward powered home a brilliant strike to make it 4-1 and round off a convincing victory.
What It Means
The win was more than just three points. After back-to-back defeats, this emphatic display restored confidence and underlined the depth and resilience within the squad.
With 22 points now on the board, Bullets U19s remain firmly in the hunt near the top of the standings as the BDYFL campaign enters a decisive phase.
Coach’s Reaction
Former Bullets captain and current Under-19 head coach, Yamikani Fodya, praised his players for their response after back-to-back defeats, describing the 4-1 victory over Airspot United as an important turning point.
“This was a very important win for us. We came into the game knowing we had to react after the last two results, and I’m proud of how the boys responded. From the first whistle we showed hunger, pressed with intensity, and took our chances well.
“Everyone played their part — from the attackers who scored the goals to the midfield and defence who worked tirelessly, and the substitutes who came in and made a big impact. That’s the kind of spirit we need going forward.”
Fodya also challenged his charges to build on the performance as the BDYFL campaign enters a crucial stage.
“We can’t relax. This win gives us confidence, but the league is still tough, and we must keep pushing. Our target is to stay consistent, collect more points, and remain in contention at the top. We’ll return to training and prepare well for our next match against Ekhaya Youth.”
