FCB Nyasa Big Bullets have began their Airtel Top 8 title defence with a 2-0 win against Civil Service United on Saturday at Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre.
In the first half, Bullets dominated, opening the scoring in the 6th minute through Stanley Billiat, who finished with a simple tap-in from a well-timed assist by Babatunde Adeboje.
Six minutes later, Chawanangwa Gumbo, who was named man of the match, doubled the lead following a defensive error by Civil as Precious Sambani intercepted a misplaced pass and set up Ephraim Kondowe, who delivered a square pass to Gumbo, perfectly positioned to slot the ball home.
Civil’s goalkeeper, Rahman John, picked an injury in the 18th minute and was replaced by Blessings Juma in the 21st minute.
Civil’s coach Abbas Makawa expressed confidence ahead of the return leg, saying they aim to cause an upset.
Bullets’ Second Assistant Coach, Micheal Ngole, acknowledged the challenge posed by Civil but credited their victory to thorough preparation.
Ngole, however, stressed that the second leg will be unpredictable.
The two teams will meet again at CIVO Stadium in Lilongwe on 20 October 2024.
Cup action continues on Sunday, with Mighty Mukuru Wanderers facing Bangwe All Stars and Chitipa United taking on Kamuzu Barracks.
