January was a month to remember for FCB Nyasa Big Bullets in the Castel Challenge Cup. The People’s Team recorded a flawless run to reach the semifinals, where they will face Mzuzu City Hammers this weekend at Kamuzu Stadium.
Gilbert Chirwa’s men were unstoppable in the knockout stages, beating Songwe Border United 3-0 in the Round of 32, Ndirande Stars 3-1 in the Round of 16, and Mighty Tigers 2-0 in the quarterfinals. These results have set the stage for an exciting semifinal showdown, and a few stars truly shone during the month.
Following their impressive displays, Maxwell Phodo, Yamikani Mologeni, Innocent Nyasulu, and Chawanangwa Gumbo have been nominated for the January Men’s HTD Player of the Month Award. Here’s a closer look at their contributions.
Maxwell Phodo
Maxwell Phodo has been a force to be reckoned with this January. The forward opened the month with a hat-trick against Songwe Border United, followed by a brace against Ndirande Stars, and capped it off with another brace against Mighty Tigers. He was named Player of the Match in all three games and currently leads the competition with 7 goals, underlining his importance to Bullets’ Cup campaign.
Yamikani Mologeni
Yamikani Mologeni has been a key creative spark from the back. The full-back provided four assists directly contributing to Phodo’s seven goals, including two in the 3-0 win over Songwe Border United, one for Ephraim Kondowe’s equaliser against Ndirande Stars, and another for Phodo in the 2-0 quarterfinal win over Mighty Tigers. Mologeni’s vision, consistency, and energy have made him a vital part of the People’s Team’s success this month.
Innocent Nyasulu
Between the sticks, Innocent Nyasulu has been a rock. He kept two clean sheets in three matches, conceding only once against Ndirande Stars. His leadership, composure, and crucial saves have played a vital role in guiding Bullets to the semifinals.
Chawanangwa Gumbo
In midfield, Chawanangwa Gumbo has been tireless. He linked play beautifully, controlled the tempo, and provided two key assists, setting up Phodo against Songwe Border United and assisting again against Ndirande Stars. Gumbo’s work rate and influence in the middle of the park have been essential to Maule’s strong performances in January.
Voting closes on Wednesday at 14:30!
Make your voice heard before the big semifinal clash against Mzuzu City Hammers — cast your vote now and decide January’s standout performer for the People’s Team.
