By Innocent Manda

Lilongwe, 22 June, Mana: FCB Nyasa Big Bullets and Silver Strikers are set to rekindle their fierce rivalry in the 2025 Airtel Top 8 final scheduled for July 12 at Bingu National Stadium.

Silver Strikers booked their ticket to the final after defeating city rivals Civo Service United 2-1 in a tense semifinal clash on Sunday afternoon. Goals from Nickson Mwase and Emmanuel Allan sealed the victory, while Peter Ng’ambi pulled one back for the Servants.

A day earlier, the defending champions Bullets overcame Karonga United 2-1 under the floodlights. Chikumbutso Salima opened the scoring in the 24th minute, but Karonga equalized shortly after the break. Hassan Kajoke’s 64th-minute strike ensured the People’s Team held on to progress.

Silver head coach Peter Mgangira downplayed any need for special motivation ahead of the final.

“They’re already paid for their job, and I don’t think they need extra motivation, every player knows his job. Injuries are no excuse—we prepare for every match with full responsibility,” said Mgangira.

On Saturday, Bullets coach Peter Mponda acknowledged the threat posed by Karonga and praised his side’s mental strength.

“Defensively, we were unconvincing, but in terms of chances, they had more, I’m happy with the result and how we responded under pressure,” said Mponda after the match.

This marks the third time Bullets and Silver will meet in an Airtel Top 8 final. In 2021, Bullets triumphed via penalties after a 1-1 draw. In 2024, they retained the title with a narrow 1-0 win.