FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Under 19s conceded three goals in the first half as they lost 3-2 to Mighty Wanderers Youth in the FCB Katswiri Under 20 League at Kamuzu Stadium on Saturday morning.
Under the scorching spotlight, the rival youngsters clashed in a frenetic battle of supremacy when they curtain-raised the Blantyre derby between their brothers later in the afternoon.
The young Nomads broke the deadlock, taking a commanding 3-0 lead into halftime, but young Maule refused to surrender, launching a valiant second-half fightback that would fall just short.
What happened
The tie kicked off with both teams hungry for an early advantage, but Golden Mafuna’s third-minute effort forced our young goalie, Daniel Matumula, into making a stunning save, conceding a corner kick that Bullets’ defence expertly cleared.
Conversely, two minutes later, Martin Adam squandered a golden opportunity when he failed to capitalise on a beautifully crafted team move.
Wanderers responded swiftly, winning a corner kick that Aubrey Manyengo took, but Bullets’ resilient defence denied them another chance to open the scoring.
As the match intensified, both teams traded chances. Peter Kaliya’s shot sailed wide, while Kelvin Chimodzi missed another glorious opportunity to put Bullets ahead. Brian Mwase’s long-range effort also went over the bar.
Against the run of play, Limbani Mwayamba struck in the 16th minute, connecting with Kaliya’s corner kick to give Wanderers Youth the lead.
The visitors doubled their advantage in the 36th minute, courtesy of Golden Mafuna’s clinical finish after Haven Mpoto’s pinpoint pass.
Owen Dzombe sealed Wanderers’ third goal five minutes before the break, leaving Bullets with a monumental task in the second half.
Determined to mount a comeback, Yamikani Fodya made three substitutions, introducing Pemphero Mdeza, Blessings Chiku, and Charles Mkandawire.
The changes revitalised Bullets, with Mkandawire pulling one back in the 53rd minute with a long-range strike after our youngsters’ quick play from a free kick.
We launched a fierce onslaught, with substitute Blessings Lungu scoring in the 72nd minute, expertly connecting Adam’s header.
The momentum shifted, and Bullets Youth pressed for an equaliser, but Wanderers held firm.
Ultimately, the visitors emerged victorious, winning 3-2 in a captivating contest showcasing the teams’ tenacity and skill.
What it means
Following the defeat to their rivals, Fodya’s boys now have 39 points from 20 games, and they have moved from second position to fifth in the league. They have suffered back-to-back defeats and a sixth in the league this season.
Fodya post-match reaction
“Tough pill to swallow, back-to-back defeats. We started strong and created chances but couldn’t capitalise. Wanderers’ clinical finishing made the difference. We conceded at crucial moments, and that changed the game’s dynamics. Second-half substitutions sparked life, Charles Mkandawire and Blessings Lungu made an impact. Our relentless pressure nearly yielded an equaliser. We will regroup, refocus, and work on correcting our mistakes. The team’s spirit remains high, and we’ll bounce back stronger.”
Looking forward
The young Bullets will aim to bounce back when they return to action next weekend.
