Moyale Barracks and FCB Nyasa Big Bullets date with destiny when they face-off in the semi-final of the 2024 FDH Bank Cup at Bingu National Stadium this evening.
The two teams are meeting for the second time in a space of two weeks having shared the spoils in the TNM Super League after 1-1 draw at Kamuzu Stadium.
Moyale and Bullets are no strangers to each other in cup games having met in the FDH Bank Cup Round of 16 match in which The People’s Team won 4-2 on post-match penalties after 4-4 draw in regulation time in 2022.
The two teams also met in the semi-finals of the 2017 Fisd Challenge Cup which Moyale triumphed 5-4 on post-match penalties after 2-2 draw in regulation time at Civo Stadium.
They also met in two consecutive Presidential Cup finals in 2012 and 2016 and Bullets won both matches. The People’s Team defeated Moyale 1-0 in 2012 before a 4-3 victory on post-match penalties after 1-1 draw in regulation time in 2016.
After training under flood lights at BNS for the first time, Moyale coach Pritchard Mwansa said they are geared for the showdown.
’’We have prepared well for the game. We expect a very tough match and we know that they will come hard on us. But we are ready for them,’’ said Mwansa.
There is renewed hope in Bullets camp after a comeback 2-1 victory over Red Arrows in the Caf Champions League at BNS on Sunday.
Coach Kalisto Pasuwa, though his side will have divided attention, said his charges need to up their game against Moyale.
‘’ Moyale are a physical team. But I think the team that carries a right mind of approach will carry the day,’’ said Pasuwa.
Blue Eagles await the winner between Moyale and Bullets in the final after the Area 30 based side defeated Karonga 2-0 in another semi-final at Civo Stadium on Saturday.
Since the inception of the FDH Bank Cup in 2021, Bullets have won it twice in 2022 and 2023 whereas Silver Strikers won the inaugural edition in 2021.
