FCB Nyasa Big Bullets: Mapemba Out, Chilipa Impresses, Banda Building Fitness
FCB Nyasa Big Bullets head coach Peter Mponda has given an update on the squad's readiness for this weekend's TNM Super League home clash against defending champions Silver Strikers at Kamuzu Stadium. The coach reported that Chrispin Mapemba remains sidelined due to a long-term injury, while Lameck Gamphani is in contention for a recall.
Mapemba's absence leaves a gaping hole in the team, as the midfielder has been a crucial component of Big Bullets' offense. Mponda expressed his disappointment but remained optimistic about the team's prospects, stating, "We are in a good space and the confidence is booming in the team."
In better news, new signing Aaron Chilipa has impressed in his first full senior start, earning praise from the coach. "He is a very good player. Very confident on the ball and strong in tackling," Mponda said. The left-back's performance has given the team a boost, providing stability and solidity on the defensive end.
Another player on the mend is winger Peter Banda, who recently returned from shoulder surgery. Banda has now played back-to-back full matches and is gradually regaining his fitness. "He is not yet at the peak level we want him to be, but slowly he is getting there," Mponda said. The coach also commended the club for signing Banda while he was injured and later sending him for surgery.
As for Gamphani, the midfielder has missed recent matchday squads but remains an option for selection. "He is a good player. But we also have Peter Banda, Chikumbutso Salima, Babatunde Adepoju, Hassan Kajoke, and many more. Everyone is on top of his game," Mponda explained. With several talented players vying for positions, the coach will have some tough decisions to make before Sunday's match.
Despite the challenges, Mponda is confident that the team is prepared for the upcoming fixture. "The preparations are going on very well," he said. "Let's see what happens on Sunday."
With Mapemba still out, Big Bullets will need to rely on their depth and the form of their other players to secure a win against the defending champions. The clash promises to be an exciting one, with both teams eager to assert their dominance in the league.
Stay tuned for more updates on FCB Nyasa Big Bullets and their TNM Super League campaign. In the meantime, follow us on Facebook for the latest sports news and analysis.
Summary: FCB Nyasa Big Bullets head coach Peter Mponda provided updates on the team ahead of their TNM Super League match against Silver Strikers, confirming that Chrispin Mapemba is still recovering from a long-term injury and unlikely to play. Lameck Gamphani is also in contention for selection, but the team has several other options in midfield. New signing Aaron Chilipa has impressed in his first full senior start, and winger Peter Banda is building fitness after returning from shoulder surgery. Mponda expressed confidence in the team's preparations and praised the club for signing Banda while he was injured and later sending him for surgery.