Kenyan defender Clyde Senaji scores decisive penalty aiding Big Bullets to cup final

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STARS ABROAD Kenyan defender Clyde Senaji scores decisive penalty aiding Big Bullets to cup final

Festus Chuma 11:34 - 25.12.2023

Kenyan defender's penalty shootout heroics propelled FC Nyasa Big Bullets to the Castel Challenge Cup final in Malawi.

Kenyan defender Clyde Senaji emerged as the hero for FC Nyasa Big Bullets, securing their spot in the final with a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Mighty Mukuru Wanderers FC in the semifinal clash of the 2023 Castel Challenge Cup.

The match, which ended 1-1 in regular time, saw Senaji's composure and precision from the spot seal a 4-2 shootout win, sending his team one step closer to a historic quadruple of major trophies this season.

The People's Team, who have already retained the TNM Super League and the FDH Bank Cup, were facing a spirited Mighty Mukuru Wanderers FC side desperate for silverware in the 2023 season.

The Castel Challenge Cup represented their last chance for glory, and they fought tooth and nail to keep their dreams alive.

From the opening whistle, it was clear that both teams were determined to secure their place in the final. Big Bullets created numerous goal-scoring opportunities in the first half but were plagued by wayward finishing, leaving their fans frustrated.

Despite the missed chances, the game remained fiercely contested throughout, with both sides fighting hard to win the match played at Kamuzu Stadium.

As the final whistle blew with the score deadlocked at 1-1, the tension reached its peak.

It was now down to the high-stakes drama of a penalty shootout to determine who would progress to the Castel Challenge Cup final.

The shootout began with Stanley Sanudi and Kumwenda missing their spot kicks for the Bullets, providing a glimmer of hope for Mighty Mukuru Wanderers FC.

However, their optimism was short-lived, as the trio of Kajoke, Fodya, and Senaji, along with Precious Phiri, displayed nerves of steel to convert their penalties.

Senaji, in particular, showcased exceptional poise and accuracy, guiding his team to a 4-2 shootout victory.

The final whistle of the shootout set off scenes of jubilation among the Bullets' faithful, who celebrated their team's hard-fought victory.

The road to a historic quadruple remained intact for FC Nyasa Big Bullets, who now advance to the Castel Challenge Cup final, where they will face Silver Strikers. 

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