FCB Nyasa Big Bullets' Mponda Previews Upcoming TNM Super League Fixture Against Karonga United: Back-to-Back Wins, Squad Depth, and Individual Performances
FCB Nyasa Big Bullets head coach Peter Mponda sat down with the media to discuss the team's preparations for Sunday's TNM Super League fixture against Karonga United at Kamuzu Stadium. With the first round coming to a close, Mponda reflected on the team's journey so far and shared his expectations for the upcoming match.
"We feel good with where we are, looking at the team. The performance has been up and down—we've lacked consistency—but still, we're in a good position,"
Mponda said. "We're looking forward to finishing the first round on a high, especially playing at Kamuzu. We really need all three points at all costs."Mponda praised the team's depth and hunger, acknowledging that they lack squad depth but are determined to address this issue during the transfer window. He also highlighted the importance of individual performances, particularly those of goalkeeper Innocent Nyasulu and defenders Blessings Mpokera, Paul Master, and Chikumbutso Salima.
"He's been very good—but he's not the only one,"
Mponda said of Nyasulu. "Blessings Mpokera has been outstanding defensively, Paul Master is new but in top form, and Chikumbutso Salima is contributing both defensively and offensively. Yes, Innocent has been brilliant, but many players have stepped up."The team has been boosted by back-to-back away wins against Blue Eagles and Civil, which have given them confidence and motivation to finish the first round strongly. However, they know that Karonga United will be a tough opponent.
"A very good team—with everything in it. They've got pacey players, those who can keep the ball, defend, and a coach who loves passing football. They always give us problems no matter where we play them,"
Mponda said. "We know their threats and are fully prepared. These three points at Kamuzu will be crucial for our season."Early substitutions have been a tactical decision aimed at giving players on the bench a chance and improving team performance. Mponda emphasized that every minute counts and that it's better to use a sub early than to waste a full game.
The team is almost at full strength, with only Mapemba still recovering from injury. The supporters have been a significant boost to the team, providing unwavering support even during disappointing results.
"They've been brilliant. Even when we didn't play well or get the results, they kept supporting us,"
Mponda said. "Against Wanderers, Civil, and Blue Eagles—regardless of the outcome—they were there cheering. The players want to give them something to smile about."Playing at home doesn't guarantee an advantage, as any team can get a result anywhere. Mponda remains focused on the team's preparations and is determined to finish the first round with a win and start preparing for the second half of the season.
Can fans expect Khumbo Banda's debut on Sunday if he's cleared?
"It might be too early,"
Mponda said. "But we're excited about the possibility and will be ready if he's cleared to play."Summary: FCB Nyasa Big Bullets head coach Peter Mponda spoke to the media ahead of their TNM Super League match against Karonga United on Sunday at Kamuzu Stadium. He reflected on the team's journey so far, highlighting their inconsistency but positive position in the standings. Mponda praised the team's depth and hunger, despite lacking squad depth, and emphasized the importance of finishing the first round strongly. He also discussed early substitutions and the possibility of Khumbo Banda's debut. Key points from the interview: * Mponda feels good about the team's position in the standings despite inconsistent performances. * Back-to-back away wins have given the team confidence, but they know Karonga United will be a tough opponent. * The coach is pleased with the depth and hunger across the squad, but acknowledges the need for strengthening in key areas. * Early substitutions are made to avoid wasting full games and give bench players a chance to contribute. * Almost everyone is available for the match except for Mapemba, who is still recovering. * The supporters' energy has been a boost for the team, despite disappointing results. * Playing at home doesn't guarantee an advantage, as any team can get a result anywhere. * Mponda remains focused
