FCB Nyasa Bullets say despite yesterday’s 0-1 home defeat to TP Mazembe of Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in the second preliminary round first leg of the CAF Champions League, the battle is not yet over.
While admitting that it will be a tall order in the rough terrain of Lubumbashi, the People’s Team coach Kallisto Pasuwa said during a post-match press conference that they will fight to turn the tables.
He said: “It will be difficult in Lubumbashi because the stadium will be full and the atmosphere will be intimidating and might affect the young players, but we will give it a fight, we won’t give up.”
Malian attacker Cheick Oumar Abdalla Fofana’s sixth-minute strike made the difference at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe and the Congolese will head into the second leg scheduled for September 30 with a spring in their step.
The 19-year-old former Real Bamako player displayed intelligence and vision when he received a pass from right-back Ibrahim Keita and in a sudden counter-attack, he weaved his way past Bullets midfield to unleash a long-range shot past an out-of-position Bullets goal tender Richard Chambamba.
Prior to the goal, Bullets were on the front foot with Hassan Kajoke and Lanjesi Nkhoma causing havoc in the visitors half.
But the tide turned against the hosts in a blink of an eye, silencing Bullets fans while sending the Congolese side’s followers into loud singing.
The goal reenergised the visitors who started making inroads in Bullets territory as the hosts retreated to minimise the damage.
In the second half, the five-time African club champions changed their approach and appeared to be comfortable containing the hosts by keeping them at bay.
They were on the back foot for the better part of this half, but were tactically sound and never allowed Bullets any room to break through.
Bullets, buoyed by thousands of home fans, tried to press the visitors, but for all their possession, they failed to carve out chances.
As time ticked on, desperation took a toll for the People’s Team as they camped in Mazembe’s half to get an equaliser, but Mazembe held their nerve to bag full points.
Football pundit Charles Nyirenda said: “Despite conceding an early goal, Bullets tried to fight back, but it was evident that they were up against a better side.”
Mazembe coach Lamine N’Diaye said: “Nothing is done yet. The away win is good for us, but it’s not over yet. The success today was because of solidality and team work.”.
