Mighty Wanderers and FCB Nyasa Big Bullets face off in the opening match of the NBS Charity Shield on Saturday at Bingu National Stadium.
Bullets will be making their eighth appearance in the competition and boast a perfect record, having won the trophy every time they have participated.
Wanderers, on the other hand, are chasing their first title after four unsuccessful attempts. Their most recent setback came last season when they lost 5-3 on post match penalties following a 2-2 draw in regulation time.
In previous Charity Shield meetings, Bullets have won three times, while the Nomads dominated last season’s contests, winning all three matches played across all competitions.
Mighty Wanderers Assistant Coach McDonald Mtendera believes past results will not count heading into the new season.
“It might be tough. Yes, we beat them three times last season, but that was last season. This is a different season. They will come prepared just like us,” he said.
“Every team is preparing to win. We have stepped up our preparations and worked on correcting the mistakes we made last season, even in matches we won.”
He added that the team has worked on improving mentality and discipline as they face their rivals.
“It was more of a mental issue. There was too much respect and some lapses in discipline. We have addressed those areas so that the players are mentally stronger and more disciplined on the pitch.”
FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Head Coach Gilbert Chirwa expressed confidence in his side’s readiness.
“We are very much prepared. All the players are in good condition and looking forward to the game,” he said.
“We have strengthened the squad by bringing in new players to complement those we had last season. We now have a strong team.”
He acknowledged last season’s results but insisted this campaign presents a fresh opportunity.
“They beat us three times last year, but this is a new season. Our approach is positive, and the players are motivated to do well.”
“We are ready to face Wanderers. I will not go into details about tactics, but we are fully prepared.”
Proceeds from the 2026 Charity Shield will support the Green Girls Boarding initiative at Emvuyeni Community Day Secondary School in Mzimba District, in partnership with Plan International Malawi. The project aims to benefit 500 learners by promoting clean cooking solutions and renewable energy to create a safer and more sustainable learning environment.
