Maxwell Gasten Phodo’s first half brace enabled FCB Nyasa Big Bullets to defeat Mighty Tigers and secure a place in the semifinals of the Castel cup during a match held at Kamuzu Stadium.
The forward initiated the scoring shortly after six minutes following an early offensive by the team.
He completed his brace fourteen minutes later, allowing the Peoples Team to advance to the semifinals.
The second half commenced with Daniel Shadreck substituting for Sibale in the Tigers lineup.
Throughout the match, Bullets maintained dominance in possession, keeping the hosts under pressure and restricting their opportunities.
In the 49th minute, Mologeni executed a freekick into the penalty area, but it veered out for a goal kick. Bullets continued to apply pressure and earned a corner in the 52nd minute, although Tigers’ counterattack did not pose a threat to Nyasulu.
Tigers’ first corner was awarded in the 55th minute, yet Bullets defended with determination. In the 58th minute, Mponda made a crucial save to prevent Phodo from achieving a hat-trick.
In the 61st minute, Tigers made substitutions, bringing on Shukuraan Ack and Bonex Chigaya, but Bullets retained control of the game. A minute later, Khumbo Banda and Kondowe worked together to win a freekick within the Tigers’ penalty area, which Mike Mkwate converted from a short pass by Henry Chiwaya.
Bullets executed tactical substitutions in the 65th minute, introducing Hassan Kajoke, Mkwate, and Frank Willard in place of Lungu, Phodo, and Yankho Singo. Tigers also made additional changes, including the introduction of Steve Nkhoma, but were unable to find a breakthrough.
Bullets came close to scoring a third goal in the 71st minute when Kondowe connected with a well-placed pass from Mologeni, only to send his effort just over the crossbar. Tigers’ best opportunity of the half occurred in the 82nd minute when Precious Kwalenga broke through one-on-one but shot over the crossbar.
Late substitutions saw Peter Banda replace Mologeni in the 75th minute, while Edward Thengo came on for Paul Master during stoppage time. Bullets comfortably managed the remainder of the match to secure a 2–0 victory.
Bullets are consequently into the Castel Challenge Cup semifinals, further extending their remarkable knockout record, having scored eight goals and conceded only one.
The side will therefore face the winner of the Mzuzu City Hammers versus Mighty Wanderers quarterfinal, with the two teams scheduled to meet on Sunday afternoon at Rumphi Stadium.
Reflecting on the match, Mighty Tigers’ coach Trevour Kajawa acknowledged that they were defeated by a strong opponent.
“It is evident that my players did not attack sufficiently, which was apparent even after we conceded early. However, we will focus on the positives and look forward to future matches,” he stated.
The victorious coach, Gilbert Chirwa, emphasized the importance of capitalizing on early opportunities. He also praised Phodo’s performance, who was recognized as the Man of the Match.
“We are thrilled to have triumphed in such a competitive match. We are not resting on our laurels but are determined to maintain our strength for the upcoming semifinal,” Chirwa remarked.
In the other semifinal, Goshen City Dedza Dynamos will compete against Blue Eagles.