The stage is set for a second Blantyre derby within a week this afternoon as fierce rivals FCB Nyasa Bullets and Mighty Wanderers clash in potentially-explosive FDH Bank Cup semi-finals at Kamuzu Stadium.
Bullets are targeting a third successive win against Wanderers in the cup competition after registering 2-1 victory in last year’s round of 16 and 4-0 win in the 2022 semi-finals.
However, while history seems to favour Bullets in the competition, Wanderers will get into this derby with a spring in their step after granting Bullets a head-scratching 3-0 defeat in the TNM Super League seven days ago.
Bullets coach Peter Mponda said in a press briefing that they are determined to get a win this afternoon not only to book a successive FDH Bank Cup semi-final ticket, but also restore their pride after the recent humiliating defeat in the Super League.
“A win gives us a chance to get into the finals. If we win this game, our supporters will also start believing in us again and forget the humiliation we suffered seven days ago,” he said.
“I strongly believe that with the way we have been training this far, we will get it right this time around.”
On the other hand, Wanderers coach Bob Mpinganjira believes this is the year for the Nomads to shine in all competitions and nothing will stop them from reaching their destiny.
“All I can say is that Bullets will be a hard nut to crack this Sunday but that does not mean they will beat us. We are getting into this match well prepared and we will win,” he said.
Both sides have squad boost ahead of the derby following the return of some players from injuries. Bullets midfield work-horse Yankho Singo is available for selection while the Nomads have welcomed back strikers Cameroonian Thierry Samar Tajong and Clement Nyondo, who scored as substitutes in Thursday’s 2-0 beating of Songwe Border United in the Super League.
While Bullets are hunting for a third FDH Bank Cup glory in five editions, Wanderers are searching for their first trophy in the competition.
Bullets won the cup in 2022 and 2023.
Silver Strikers were the inaugural champions in 2021 while Blue Eagles are the reigning champions.
The winner between Bullets and Wanderers will face Silver, who yesterday stormed into the final after knocking out cross-city rivals Civil Service United following a 1-0 victory at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe.
The two sides were tied 0-0 at half time despite Silver dominating the proceedings.
In the 38th minute, striker Andrew Joseph wasted a golden opportunity, shooting wide after he was fed by Ernest Petro.
Dan Sandukila also saw his effort blocked by John Dambuleni in the 40th minute.
Moments later it was Uchizi Vunga’s turn to waste another chance as he blasted his shot over the bar.
Civil’s first chance came just after recess and fell on their captain Righteous Banda but his shot went over the bar.
Banda’s free kick in the 55th minute was also cleared towards Dambuleni, but he could not connect the rebound.
On the other end, Joseph registered Silver first shot on target in the 73rd minute, forcing Rahaman John to make a save.
Silver finally broke the deadlock through Joseph in the 88th minute.
Right-back MacDonald Lameck’s thrown in was crossed into the box by Vunga and Joseph, lurking in the box, headed past John.
The final is scheduled for November 9 at the Bingu National Stadium.
