“Not a concern”: Peter Banda provides encouraging injury update after return

Flames sensation Peter Banda made his long-awaited comeback on Saturday evening, starting for FCB Nyasa Big Bullets against Karonga United at Bingu National Stadium.

This marked Banda’s third debut for Bullets and his return to the pitch after an almost 18-month hiatus due to a shoulder injury that required surgical treatment in Kenya.

MORE NEWS FROM WAMPIRA

Banda quickly made his presence felt, showcasing excellent link-up play from his number 10 position, operating just ahead of midfielders Frank Willard and Lloyd Aaron Banega.

Bullets edge spirited Karonga to reach 6th Airtel Top 8 final

He nearly bagged an assist with a perfectly placed free-kick that Babatunde Adepoju narrowly headed over. Minutes later, however, he successfully registered an assist, delivering another free-kick that met Chikumbutso Salima’s head to put Bullets ahead in the 26th minute.

Unfortunately, Banda’s return was cut short when he was elbowed by a Karonga United defender, forcing his withdrawal just before halftime.

Banda allays injury fears

, the former Sherrif Tiraspol and Simba Sporting Club attacker provided an encouraging update on the injury scare.

“It wasn’t something of a major concern,” Banda clarified. “It was just an elbow to the eye which made it hard to see clearly for a moment, but I’m okay now and even ready to put more effort.”

Banda’s unfortunate return cut short in semi-Final clash

Banda expressed his delight at being back on the pitch and emphasized his determination to earn a regular spot in Peter Mponda’s starting lineup. “I’m so happy to be back, everyone has been waiting for my return, so, I know, I need to fight for my place in the team. It’s every professional player’s dream to be playing regularly, and after 18 months on the sideline, I’m happy to be back again.”

Head Coach Peter Mponda praised Banda’s immediate influence on the game. “Peter gave us what we wanted from him. It’s just unfortunate that he didn’t manage to finish the game or even the first half.”

Mponda further reassured fans about Banda’s condition: “He has been training with us, and we knew that he was ready to make a return. The injury that he sustained is not that which has been troubling him; we are happy with his contribution.”