FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Women were held to a 1-1 draw by MDF Lioness on Saturday afternoon at Mpira Stadium in a clash that was defined by resilience, intensity and moments of brilliance from both sides.
The match marked the resumption of the NBM Women’s Premiership after a two-week break due to the FIFA International Break, during which Malawi hosted the Three-Nation Tournament — won by Zambia, with Zimbabwe finishing second and the hosts settling for third place.
Caroline Mlezo handed Maule Ladies the lead from the penalty spot in the 20th minute, before Mervis Misomali equalised four minutes later to ensure the points were shared.
First Half: Bright Start and Early Chances
Maggie Chombo’s side started brightly and nearly opened the scoring in the 2nd minute when Sharon Dzimau sent a free kick just over the bar. Lioness responded quickly through Sabina Thom, who broke through on goal in the 8th minute but fired wide.
The home team then survived a scare when Lioness were awarded a penalty after Lyna James was adjudged to have committed a foul in the box. Thom stepped up, but Thokozani Mwase produced a superb save to keep the game level.
Buoyed by that moment, Maule Ladies pushed forward again. In the 16th minute, Linda Nyangu and Monalisa Banda combined well, but Lioness dealt with the danger. Their pressure earned a penalty of their own in the 20th minute after Banda was fouled, and Caroline Mlezo converted confidently to make it 1-0.
The lead, however, lasted only four minutes. A lapse at the back allowed Mervis Misomali to equalise for Lioness in the 24th minute.
Second Half: Fresh Legs, Renewed Push
Chombo refreshed her side’s attack in the 55th minute with the introduction of Ioulia Yiannakis and Vanessa Issa, and Yiannakis almost inspired a breakthrough from a corner, though James sent her effort over.
At the hour mark, Frolida Safilodi replaced Chimwemwe Sapangwa as the home team continued to push for a winner. Lioness remained dangerous on transition, with Misomali going close again moments after the substitution.
Mlezo nearly restored Bullets’ lead in the 70th minute, connecting with Yiannakis’ free kick but failing to keep her effort down. Maule Ladies kept increasing the pressure with more corners and crosses, but the visitors remained disciplined and organised at the back.
The visitors threatened from an 87th-minute corner but couldn’t convert. Deep into added time, Yiannakis curled a free kick over the bar — the final opportunity in a hard-fought contest.
What It Means
Saturday’s result leaves both teams fourth and fifth on the log, respectively — tied on 19 points. Maule Ladies remain firmly in the top half as they chase a strong finish to the campaign.
What’s Next
Bullets now shift focus to their upcoming league assignments. Chombo’s side will aim to build on their creativity, improve their finishing, and push for maximum points in their next outing.
