FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Reserves Suffer Frustrating 1-0 Defeat to Chilobwe United
FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Reserves endured a disappointing morning at Kamuzu Stadium as they suffered their second defeat of the 2025 ThumbsUp Southern Region Football League season, going down 1-0 to Chilobwe United. Despite an impressive display of attacking intent, a costly defensive error early in the second half proved decisive.
The opening exchanges of the match were characterized by end-to-end play, with both teams threatening to break the deadlock. In the 10th minute, Bullets came close to taking the lead when Kondwani Mhone's dangerous corner found Daniel White, whose towering header flew just over the crossbar. Chilobwe responded with a spell of pressure, earning two quick corners in the 29th minute.
Despite the early pressure, Bullets' defense, anchored by goalkeeper Julius Banda, held firm to clear the danger. As the half progressed, the tempo intensified, with both sides battling for the breakthrough. Chilobwe were awarded a free kick just outside the area in the 40th minute, but the attempt was deflected for a corner, which drifted harmlessly wide of Banda's goal.
The first half ended goalless, leaving both sets of fans frustrated. Bullets made early changes after the break, introducing Enos Hendeman and Yankho Phiri for MaClay Chiwaya and Mhone in a bid to increase attacking momentum.
However, disaster struck just five minutes into the restart when a defensive mix-up allowed Sylvester Chimenya to pounce and fire Chilobwe into a 1-0 lead in the 50th minute. Coach Heston Munthali reacted swiftly, sending on Prince Chalera and Prince Chiumia in the 58th minute to replace Movic Banda and Zaneel Jussab.
The changes added fresh urgency as Bullets pressed forward in search of an equalizer. In the 65th minute, Kondwani Tebulo tested the keeper with a well-struck free kick that was parried away. The resulting corner was also dealt with, as Chilobwe’s defense continued to frustrate the home side.
Bullets kept pushing, and Chalera came close in the 75th minute, but his curling effort missed the target by inches. The hosts piled on the pressure in the closing stages, but Chilobwe remained compact and disciplined at the back. Chilobwe managed the final minutes well, winning two late corners to slow down the tempo.
Bullets defended the set pieces well, but time ran out before they could find the equalizer. The result sees Bullets remain in second place on the log with 27 points, three points behind leaders Ekhaya Reserves, who have a game in hand.
Despite the defeat, Bullets can take solace in their impressive attacking play, which created numerous chances throughout the match. However, defensive errors continue to cost them dearly, and they will need to address this issue if they are to mount a serious title challenge.
FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Reserves will look to bounce back when they face Blue Eagles Reserves on Sunday at Balaka Community Ground. Kick-off is at 11:00 am.
Meanwhile, Chilobwe United will look to build on their victory when they take on Mafco Youth on Saturday at Chilobwe Ground. Kick-off is at 11:00 am.
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Summary: FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Reserves suffered their second defeat of the season against Chilobwe United, losing 1-0 in a closely contested match at Kamuzu Stadium. Despite dominating large periods of the game, Bullets conceded a costly goal early in the second half, leading to their defeat. The first half was a high-tempo affair, with both teams creating scoring opportunities, but neither could find the back of the net. Bullets made changes after the break, but Chilobwe's defense remained strong, and the visitors scored the only goal of the game in the 50th minute. The result sees Bullets remain in second place on the log with 27 points, three points behind leaders Ekhaya Reserves, who have a game in hand.
