Zambian striker Derrick Bulaya has opened his goal-scoring account in Mozambique, netting his debut goal for CD Costa do Sol during a tightly contested 1-1 draw against Ferroviário de Nacala on Tuesday afternoon.
The former Zambia U20 international showed sharp instincts in front of goal, finding the back of the net with a composed finish in the first half to hand the Maputo giants an early lead. His movement off the ball and clinical execution highlighted exactly why the club secured his services in the current window.
Bulaya, who joined Costa do Sol on loan from Green Eagles in June, looked confident and hungry from the opening whistle. The striker led the line with purpose, combining well with the midfield and stretching the Ferroviário defence with clever runs into the channels. His goal was a reward for his persistence and attacking awareness, as he peeled away from his marker to slot home from close range following a sweeping move down the right flank.
Despite dominating large portions of the game, Costa do Sol were pegged back late in the second half when Ferroviário snatched an equalizer through a set-piece routine. The game ended 1-1, with both sides sharing the spoils in what was a high-intensity Mozambican league fixture.
The 22-year-old Bulaya is on a six-month loan deal, and has hit the ground running in what is shaping up to be a promising stint with the Mozambican top-tier side. After spending last season on loan at Red Arrows, Bulaya is now looking to take his game to the next level with consistent game time and improved end product in front of goal.
The Choma-born striker is also aiming to follow in the footsteps of Lineker Mwikisa, a former Costa do Sol striker who made headlines with the club after scoring seven goals in just 13 appearances before earning a move to Portugal’s Segunda Liga side Santa Clara. Mwikisa, now part of the Zambia U17 Women’s National Team technical bench as a Video Analyst, remains an inspiration for many young Zambian players venturing abroad.
With this strong start, Bulaya has not only endeared himself to the Costa do Sol faithful but also sent a clear message that he means business. His form could potentially open doors to bigger opportunities within Southern African football or even in Europe.
Costa do Sol, one of Mozambique’s most storied clubs, will be banking on Bulaya to provide the cutting edge as they aim to challenge for domestic honors this season. If he continues on this trajectory, Bulaya could soon become a key figure in the club’s attacking arsenal.
