FCB Nyasa Big Bullets enjoyed an eventful weekend, with Gilbert Chirwa’s First Team sealing a cup final spot, while Yamikani Fodya’s Under-19s showed resilience in the league.
The youth side curtain-raised the senior team’s semifinal clash against Mzuzu City Hammers at Kamuzu Stadium, testing their character and keeping supporters on the edge of their seats.
Here’s a recap of the weekend’s action for both squads.
First Team: Bullets Secure Second Cup Final of the Season
Chirwa’s men continued their impressive cup run after reaching the final of the Castel Challenge Cup with a convincing 2–0 victory over Mzuzu City Hammers in a semifinal clash played at Kamuzu Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
Two well-taken goals from Wongani Lungu against his former club proved decisive. The People’s Team showcased composure and attacking quality to secure their second cup final appearance this season, following earlier qualification for the Airtel Top 8 final, which they won after defeating Silver Strikers in July.
Playmaker Yamikani Mologeni once again pulled the strings in midfield, providing both assists for Lungu’s goals. His tally now stands at six assists in the Castel Challenge Cup this campaign, underlining his influence and creative brilliance in the competition.
Coach Gilbert Chirwa reflected on the performance:
“In football, if you are a good team, you must create chances. We created many in the first half but didn’t score early. We told the boys to stay focused because a goal can come at any moment. They kept fighting, and the two goals took us to the final. I wasn’t worried—it was just a matter of time.”
This marks only the second time in the club’s history that Bullets have reached the final of the Castel Challenge Cup, which entered its third year this season after its launch in 2023, when The People’s Team won the inaugural edition.
The team will resume training on Wednesday ahead of the highly anticipated final against Goshen City Dedza Dynamos, set for 21 February at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe.
Under-19s: Late Draw Ends Title Hopes but Strong Finish Ahead
The Under-19 side were held to a 1–1 draw against Nyambadwe United in a tightly contested Blantyre District Youth Football League match played at Kamuzu Stadium on Sunday morning.
Despite creating several chances, Bullets were unable to secure maximum points but showed determination throughout. The result leaves them level on 57 points with Ekhaya Youth, as both sides continue to battle for second place in the league with one match remaining.
In a twist of fate, Wanderers Youth were officially crowned league champions following Bullets’ draw, despite suffering a narrow 3–2 defeat to Ndirande Dortmund. Their earlier consistency ensured the title was sealed with a game to spare.
Despite missing out on the league title, Fodya praised the potential in his squad:
“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.”
Maule U19s now turn their focus to sharpening their finishing and correcting key areas as they aim to secure second place for consecutive seasons—an achievement that reflects the strength of the club’s youth development system.
Looking Ahead
Both squads now turn their attention to upcoming challenges. The senior side targets silverware in the Castel Challenge Cup final, while the Under-19s aim to finish the league strongly, continuing to nurture the next generation of talent for the club.
