FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Under-19s are ready to turn the page and dive into a new challenge as they prepare for the start of the 2025 FCB Katswiri Under-20 League.
The young Bullets will kick off their league campaign this Saturday morning at Chilomoni Stadium, hosting fierce rivals and seasoned contenders Yizo Yizo Warriors.
This fixture is more than just a game — it’s a battle steeped in recent history. Back in the 2024 league opener, our U19s made a statement with a commanding 3-0 victory over Yizo Yizo. The return leg was a tough test, with the Warriors holding the Bullets to a 2-2 draw in a fiercely contested match.
The rivalry heated up even more last month during the African Herbal Mixture Cup. After a 1-1 draw in normal time, our young Bullets showed their grit by edging Yizo Yizo 3-2 on penalties to reach the semifinals. Though the cup slipped from our hands with a fourth-place finish, the fight and spirit remain unshaken.
After weeks of focused preparation following the Herbal Cup, the boys are hungry to bounce back and chase league glory. Excitement is high inside the camp, especially with fresh talent joining the ranks from the Under-16 league, adding strength and depth to the squad.
As they get ready to face Yizo Yizo once again in the opening fixture, our U19s are determined to start strong and make their mark at Chilomoni.
Coach Yamikani Fodya Comments on the Season Opener
Commenting on the league’s kickoff and the opening clash with Yizo Yizo, head coach Yamikani Fodya shared:
“I’m happy that the league is finally kicking off. The boys have been waiting for this moment for quite some time — especially after the African Herbal Mixture Cup. It’s been a long buildup, and they’re excited to get back on the pitch.”
“Facing Yizo Yizo is always tough. They’re a team that pushes us every time we meet, and we expect a competitive game at Chilomoni. Being the opening match makes it even more intense.”
“Our goal is simple — we want to start the campaign with a win. The disappointment from the Herbal Mixture Cup is still there, but we’ve talked to the boys and reminded them that every setback is a chance to grow. They’ve responded well in training and are now fully focused on the league.”
“There’s no pressure from finishing second last season. That chapter is closed. This is a new season with new faces — many have just moved up from the Under-16s, and we believe we’ve built a strong and determined group.”
“We’re also proud to have promoted four players to the reserve team. It shows the development path is working. The rest of the boys are motivated by that — they know opportunities come with effort. Even with the departures, I’m confident we have the depth and talent to compete.”
With fresh motivation, emerging talent, and a clear target in sight, Saturday’s showdown at Chilomoni will be more than just a league opener — it will set the tone and test the character of our young warriors as they aim to stamp their authority on the 2025 season.
