Babatunde Adepoju was in scintillating form, netting four goals as FCB Nyasa Big Bullets cruised to a commanding 5-0 victory over second-tier side Chilumba Barracks in the FDH Bank Cup round of 32 at Chitipa Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

The People’s Team made their first-ever trip to Chitipa to face Chilumba in what proved to be a one-sided affair. Bullets dominated proceedings with three first-half goals before adding two more after the break to seal an emphatic win.

The visitors initially struggled to find their rhythm as Chilumba held firm defensively. However, Bullets broke the deadlock on 24 minutes through a well-worked team move. Debutant Khumbo Banda found Paul Master, who released Wongani Lungu to set up Adepoju for the opener.

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The Nigerian striker then turned provider three minutes later, making a brilliant run before setting up Chawanangwa Gumbo for the second goal. Adepoju completed his brace on 34 minutes, finishing expertly from Peter Banda’s assist. Hassan Kajoke was unlucky to hit the post in first-half stoppage time.

Head coach Peter Mponda made tactical changes at halftime, introducing Bright Munthali for his second debut alongside Yamikani Mologeni, replacing Kajoke and Gumbo. The substitutions proved inspired as Adepoju struck twice in quick succession just before the hour mark to complete his four-goal haul and seal the victory.

Further substitutions saw Ephraim Kondowe, Sean McBrams, and Mike Mkwate replace Peter Banda, Frank Willard, and Adepoju respectively. Chilumba responded with their own changes, bringing on Andy Kaonga, Joseph Chunga, and Innocent Mkandawire for Glyn Msowoya, Frank Rushaga, and Febbie Nyirenda, but the damage was already done.

Post-Match Reaction

Bullets head coach Peter Mponda expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance and goal tally.

“I’m pleased with how we controlled the game. We struggled in the opening minutes, but once we settled, we took command and scored some beautiful goals. Defensively we were solid too, though there are still a few areas we need to work on,” Mponda said.

Chilumba Barracks coach Nelson Chirwa acknowledged his team’s loss of concentration proved costly.

“We started well for the first 10-15 minutes, but then we lost focus, which allowed Bullets to capitalize. These are young players who are still learning, and I believe they will grow and perform better next time,” Chirwa reflected.

The comprehensive victory propels Bullets into the round of 16, where they will face the winner of the Becks Academy versus The Boys tie, with the fixture set to be played away from home.

Bullets join Civil Service United, Chatoloma ADMARC, Moyale Barracks, Mighty Wanderers, Silver Strikers, Blue Eagles, Mzuzu City Hammers, Creck Sporting Club, and Kamuzu Barracks in the next round, all having secured victories in their respective matches.