Airtel Top 8 Final Preview: FCB Nyasa Big Bullets vs Silver Strikers – A Familiar Rivalry Rekindled

The stage is set once again for a thrilling showdown at the Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe as FCB Nyasa Big Bullets and Silver Strikers clash in the Airtel Top 8 final—a repeat of last year’s championship decider.

In November 2024, the two giants of Malawian football met in the same final, with Bullets edging Silver Strikers to lift the trophy. Fast forward to 2025, the stakes remain just as high, and both sides will be eager to assert dominance in what is shaping up to be one of Malawi’s most compelling football rivalries.

Road to the Final

• Bullets marched into the final after a tight 1-0 aggregate win over Creck Sporting Club in the quarterfinals before edging Karonga United 2-1 in a tense semifinal clash.
• Silver Strikers, on the other hand, displayed attacking firepower by dispatching Moyale Barracks 4-1 on aggregate in the quarters, and then overcame Civo United 2-1 in the semifinal.

Head-to-Head Momentum

The two sides already locked horns earlier this year in the opening fixture of the 2025 TNM Super League, with Bullets narrowly winning 1-0, a result that could give them a psychological edge heading into the final.

Key Talking Points

• Repeat Final: This is the second consecutive season these teams meet in the final—a testament to their consistent form and stature in Malawian football.
• Bullets’ Recent Dominance: Having won the previous final and the recent league encounter, Bullets seem to have the upper hand—but Silver Strikers will be out for revenge.
• Silver’s Redemption Mission: The Central Bankers will be determined to end their Top 8 heartbreak and rewrite the script at the very same venue.
• Tactical Battle: With both teams boasting strong defensive records and clinical attacks throughout the tournament, expect a high-stakes tactical contest.

As the fans flock to Bingu National Stadium, all eyes will be on whether Bullets will defend their crown or if Silver Strikers will rise to the occasion and end their cup final drought. Either way, Malawi is in for another football spectacle.