Blantyre, Malawi – FCB Nyasa Big Bullets completed a remarkable domestic season on Saturday, claiming the 2025/26 Castel Challenge Cup with a 2-1 victory over Goshen City Dedza Dynamos at the Bingu National Stadium. The win secures a domestic double for “The People’s Team,” adding to their earlier triumph in the Airtel Top 8. A brace from Hassan Kajoke proved decisive, capping off a campaign that, despite narrowly missing the TNM Super League title, showcased the club’s consistent strength across all competitions.
The Castel Challenge Cup victory marks a fitting complete to a season where Bullets consistently demonstrated resilience and quality. While the team finished as runners-up in the TNM Super League, their success in both the Airtel Top 8 and now the Castel Challenge Cup underscores their ability to perform under pressure and deliver when it matters most. This is Bullets’ second Castel Challenge Cup triumph, solidifying their position as one of Malawi’s premier football clubs.
The match itself saw a dominant first-half performance from Gilbert Chirwa’s side, though they were unable to convert their possession into goals. Despite creating several opportunities, including promising free-kick positions, Bullets found Dedza Dynamos’ defense resolute. Wongani Lungu conceded a dangerous free kick for Bullets, but Blessings Mpokera cleared the danger, and Innocent Nyasulu comfortably gathered a late corner. The first half concluded goalless, a testament to Dedza’s determined defending.
The breakthrough arrived in the 58th minute, with Kajoke displaying composure to round the goalkeeper and slot the ball into the net, giving Bullets a deserved 1-0 lead. Moments later, substitute Ephraim Kondowe nearly extended the advantage with a powerful header, forcing a fine save from the Dynamos goalkeeper. Dedza responded with increased urgency, but Bullets’ defense remained steadfast, repelling their attacks.
The decisive moment came in the 79th minute when Kajoke was brought down inside the penalty area. The forward confidently stepped up to convert the penalty, extending Bullets’ lead to 2-0. A late goal from Dedza Dynamos injected some tension into the closing stages, but Bullets held firm, with goalkeeper Innocent Nyasulu producing a brilliant save in stoppage time to secure the 2-1 victory. Nyasa Big Bullets’ official report details the match events.
Kajoke’s Decisive Performance Earns Player of the Match
Hassan Kajoke was rightfully named Player of the Match, having delivered a match-winning performance. Starting in place of Kondowe, Kajoke showcased his clinical finishing and composure, scoring both of Bullets’ goals. His ability to round the goalkeeper for the opener and confidently convert the penalty demonstrated his quality on the biggest stage. Kajoke’s performance was a key factor in securing the Castel Challenge Cup for Bullets.
Domestic Double Highlights a Successful Season
Saturday’s victory completes a domestic cup double for FCB Nyasa Big Bullets, following their earlier success in the Airtel Top 8. While the team narrowly missed out on the TNM Super League title, finishing as runners-up, their consistent performance across all domestic competitions underlines their strength and resilience. Reaching the semifinals of the FDH Bank Cup further demonstrates their ability to compete on multiple fronts.
Looking Ahead: Preparations for the New Campaign
With the domestic double secured, The People’s Team will now enjoy a well-deserved break as players recover from a demanding season. Preparations for the new campaign will begin in due course, with the technical team focused on building on this year’s success and addressing areas for improvement. The club will aim to maintain its competitive edge and challenge for further silverware in the upcoming season.
The club’s consistent performance throughout the season, culminating in the Castel Challenge Cup triumph, has undoubtedly pleased fans and stakeholders alike. The focus now shifts to building on this success and preparing for the challenges that lie ahead. A post on Facebook confirmed the victory earlier in the day.
As Bullets look towards the future, they will undoubtedly aim to replicate their success and continue to be a dominant force in Malawian football. The club’s commitment to developing talent and maintaining a strong team spirit will be crucial in achieving their goals.
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