Nigerian star Babatunde Adepoju fired a penalty and then completed a hat-trick to boot as Nyasa Big Bullets thrashed Mighty Wanderers 4-1 to book final spot in Malawi’s Airtel Top 8.
The opening exchanges proved to be a cagey affair with both sides happy to pass the ball around.
Bullets were presented with the first chance of the half, as Misheck Seleman’s attempted lob was denied by Yunis Sheriff
The People’s Team eventually opened the scoring in the 24th minute, as Adepoju converted from the spot after Wanderers defender Alfred Manyozo handled the ball inside the box.
Wanderers created chances of their own and bridged their rival rearguard in the 34th minute courtesy of Vincent Nyangulu who rose high to head a corner into the back of the net.
The Nomads shot-stopper William Thore was called upon in the 39th minute, as he did well to keep out Lanjesi Nkhoma effort from 12-yards out.
Kalisto Pusuwa’s sides dominated throughout and were camped in the Wanderers half throughout the opening 45 minutes.
However, Adepoju doubled the five minutes after the restart with a simple finish with a diving header from a rebound after a well taken free kick from Alick Lungu hit the upright.
Pasuwa’s men weren’t done there, as Lanjesi Nkhoma’s floated cross was headed home by an un-marked Adepoju.
The Nigerian striker scored his fourth goal of the match and his in the tournament on 76thminute following a communication breakdown between Peter Cholopi and his goalkeeper William Thole.
Bullets will meet winner between Silver and Civil Service United, who will meet in another semifinal match next week.
How they lined up:
Bullets XI:Ernest Kakhobwe; Gomezgani Chirwa, Nickson Nyasulu, Sankhani Mkandawire, Alick Lungu; Henry Kabichi, Chimwemwe Idana (C), Paul Kansungwi, Misheck Seleman, Babatunde Adepoju and Lanjesi Nkhoma
Subs: Rabson Chiyenda, Yamikani Fodya, Erick Kaonga, Precious Phiri, Ben Manyozo, Ernest Petro, Bright Munthali, Zicco Mkanda, Chiukepo Msowoya and Hassan Kajoke
