Blessings Mwalilino received blessings beyond the pitch after emerging the hero of the Blantyre Derby, scoring the lone goal that sank FCB Nyasa Big Bullets on Saturday, May 31. His strike ended a six-game league drought against their archrivals dating back to 2021 and sparked wild celebrations in the blue half of the commercial capital.
The goal was a statement. For Wanderers fans, a Derby victory is more than three points; it is about pride, bragging rights, and the right to claim city kingship.
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Although Francisco Madinga was named Man of the Match at full time, Mwalilino’s contribution could not be overlooked. His 12th-minute strike turned Kamuzu Stadium into a frenzy, and his name has since echoed across Malawi and beyond. After all, scoring in the Blantyre Derby—the biggest fixture in Malawian football—is no small feat.
A day later, attention turned to Lilongwe where another derby unfolded. Defending champions Silver Strikers took on Civil Service United in a thrilling encounter. Former Civil playmaker Festus Duwe opened the scoring for the Bankers in the 12th minute, but it was midfield magician Chimwemwe Idana who shone the most.
With flair, composure, and a few dazzling dance moves on the ball, Idana orchestrated Silver’s play. He netted the second and final goal of the match from the spot in the 44th minute and was deservedly voted Man of the Match.
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So impactful were their [Mwalilino and Idana] performances that they caught the attention of Senior Bishop Chafumuka of Amazing Grace Christian Gathering. A devoted football follower and a preacher of the Word, Bishop Chafumuka was present at the Blantyre Derby. Moved by the brilliance of both players, he decided to honour them with tokens of appreciation.
On Sunday, June 1, the Bishop gifted Mwalilino with K100,000 for his derby-winning goal. Later that afternoon, he extended the same gesture to Idana for his outstanding showing against Civil.
Bishop Favored Daniel Bashir, a member of Amazing Grace Christian Gathering and close associate of Bishop Chafumuka, confirmed the gesture. He said the Bishop was inspired by the players’ talent, and a desire to show that religion and football can co-exist—and even complement each other.
“It pleased the Bishop to gift these players to motivate them, and to set an example to fellow men of God that we can show love in many ways. The people who go to church are the same people who go to stadiums looking for joy,” Bashir explained.
Mwalilino, who joined Wanderers from Karonga United on February 14, is enjoying a bright start to his second elite league season. Scoring in back-to-back games, including a goal against Silver Strikers the previous weekend, the forward said the recognition was a huge confidence booster.
“I am very happy. I did not expect it, and scoring in the derby has really motivated me to keep working hard for the rest of the season,” Mwalilino shared.
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