FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Under‑19s were held to a 1–1 draw by Nyambadwe United at Kamuzu Stadium in the FCB Katswiri Under‑19 Blantyre District Youth Football League on Sunday morning.
Despite dominating large portions of the match and creating numerous chances, Bullets were unable to hold on, as a late free-kick from Francis Moyo earned the visitors a dramatic equalizer.
Fodya’s side had taken the lead through Blessings Lungu, but had to settle for a point in a hard-fought contest.
First Half: Young Bullets dominate but struggle to break the deadlock
Bullets started brightly as they pinned their opponents deep from the kickoff. Hassan Madula found space inside the box and let fly early on, though his effort narrowly went wide.
Nyambadwe responded quickly as captain Timothy Gora threatened with a shot on goal, but his strike rose over the crossbar.
The pressure continued from Fodya’s boys. Jazil Bannet slipped a neat pass to Blessings Lungu, who struck first time, only for the effort to flash over the bar. Moments later, Bannet tried his luck himself, but his shot drifted wide.
Bullets earned several corners and launched dangerous attacks. Mike Kalanda delivered a beautiful cross that Madula stretched to meet, narrowly missing the left post. Lungu’s curling corner also forced Nyambadwe to clear under pressure, while a quick counter led by Osman George went begging.
Half-Time: FCB Nyasa Big Bullets U19 0–0 Nyambadwe United
Second Half: Breakthrough at last, heartbreak in the dying minutes
Fodya made a double change at the break, bringing on Aubrey Dickies and Victor Chimenya for Willy Demakube and Mike Kalanda, injecting fresh energy.
The Young Bullets immediately pressed high, hunting for the crucial goal and the breakthrough came when Bannet delivered a perfectly weighted pass to Lungu, who calmly slotted it home to put Fodya’s side in front.
Shortly after, Duncan Kumbuyo replaced Caleb Chapendeka, adding fresh legs in midfield to maintain control. Moments later, George set up Madula, whose effort went just wide as the Young Bullets continued pressing.
Bullets continued to pile on the pressure, forcing Nyambadwe United into rare defensive corners. Despite several close attempts, Nyambadwe held firm, keeping the scoreline at 1–0.
Another substitution saw Kelvin Phiri replace Victor Chimenya, helping to sustain the intensity. Madula rose to meet Lungu’s precise delivery, but his effort sailed over the bar.
In the dying moments, heartbreak struck as Moyo scored from a free kick, snatching a dramatic late equalizer. Despite dominating most of the match, Fodya’s side had to settle for a 1–1 draw.
What It Means
The draw leaves FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Under-19s on 57 points with one game remaining in the BDYFL season.
This result ends their championship hopes, as Mighty Wanderers Youth sit on 61 points and cannot be overtaken.
Despite the setback, the Young Bullets showed attacking intent, composure, and maturity throughout the match. They created multiple chances and controlled large portions of the game, showcasing the talent rising through the club’s ranks.
Coach’s Postmatch Reaction
Fodya reflected on the hard-fought draw, emphasizing the learning value for his players:
“It was a tough game against Nyambadwe United. We had taken the lead, but unfortunately, we conceded a late goal. While disappointing, this is part of the learning process for our young players.
Experiences like this are invaluable for their development, teaching them lessons both on and off the ball.
Now, our focus shifts to the final game against Ndirande Dortmund. We’ll return to training, review the mistakes made today, and work to improve.
We are very happy with the talent and potential in our squad. The future is bright for these players, and we believe they will continue to make an impact across all levels of club football.”
Fodya highlighted the squad’s growth and remains confident in their ability to finish the season strongly.
What’s Next
Fodya’s side will regroup and prepare for their final BDYFL fixture against Ndirande Dortmund, aiming to end the season on a high note.
