TNM Super League giants Mighty Mukuru Wanderers and FCB Nyasa Big Bullets will clash this weekend in the highly anticipated Blantyre Derby, as the race for points at the top of the table intensifies.
The two Blantyre rivals are separated by five points, with league leaders Big Bullets having played one game more than second-placed Wanderers.
Bullets captain Lloyd Banega Aroan has acknowledged the pressure that comes with the derby, but says his side is looking forward to facing their arch-rivals on Saturday.
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“We have prepared well for the game, but as the coach said, the Blantyre Derby is like any other match,” said Banega. “However, this is the biggest fixture in Malawi, and naturally, it comes with extra pressure. Everyone wants to win the Derby, but our preparations have been the same as for other matches.”
Banega, a former Civil Service United midfielder, admitted the stakes are much higher in the derby, and victory would mean more than just three points.
“This game is different because there’s a lot at stake — everyone wants to rule the city. When we see Mighty Wanderers on the fixture list, what comes to mind is to fight for a win. It’s the match we look forward to the most,” he added.
A win for Bullets on Saturday would help extend their lead over Wanderers and put more daylight between the top two, and Banega has called for maximum support from the fans.
“As players, we are ready. The 11 who will start are prepared to give their all, but we also need our 12th player — the supporters. They really push us from the stands, and we’ll need that energy again on Saturday,” said the captain.
This weekend’s derby will also mark Banega’s first appearance in the fierce rivalry as team captain, having recently taken over the armband from Clyde Senaji Navade.
“Saturday will be my first Blantyre Derby as captain, and it’s important that we secure the win to make it a memorable one. When you’re a leader and things are going well, it means a lot. We want to win this game and show our determination,” Banega concluded.
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