The MTN Busoga Masaza Cup returned in full swing this past weekend, with action-packed fixtures across Ivukula, Busesa, and Iganga despite torrential downpours. From Kigulu’s dominant display on Sunday to Budiope’s revenge thriller on Saturday, fans were treated to drama, goals, and memorable individual performances.
Bugweri edge Bunhole, Budiope stun Bukono
On Saturday, the Masaza Cup resumed after a fortnight’s break, and fans flocked to grounds in Ivukula and Busesa undeterred by the rains.
At Busesa Mixed Primary School, Bugweri cemented their place atop the Mawembe group with a 2-1 win over Bunhole Bunanhumba. A brace from Rotho Jeremiah Jabila sealed victory for Kenneth Kaluuba’s men, despite a nervy finish when Alex Andinda scored a late consolation for Bunhole.
“After a heavy downpour, the pitch became unplayable for both sides and the results could have gone either way. We are happy to have found the caution goal earlier in the second half,” Bugweri’s coach Kaluuba said post-match.
Meanwhile, in Ivukula, Budiope exacted revenge on Bukono in a five-goal thriller, winning 3-2 away from home.
Bukono looked poised for another victory when Abbel Nabola rifled home a 25-yard strike in the 15th minute. But Geoffrey Isoloza equalized six minutes later from the penalty spot. After halftime, Budiope’s relentless pressure paid off, as captain Steven Kirya and Isoloza struck in quick succession to turn the game around. Nabola bagged his second late on for Bukono, but it wasn’t enough to salvage a point.
The standout performer, Isoloza, was rewarded with an MTN Kabode smartphone after being named Man of the Match.
Bukono coach Farouk Kiige lamented his side’s collapse:
“We are very disappointed with our second half performances where we let ourselves down and lost almost all aerial balls.”
Budiope coach Isa Kifuwa was bullish after the comeback:
“We were more determined to get our first away win of the season. So this time we are ready to pounce on Bugweri at home before we conclude with Bunhole Bunanhumba. We still have a chance to progress after today’s win.”
Kigulu sinks Butembe in Sunday Showdown to go top of Nendha group
At Iganga Technical Institute on Sunday, Kigulu cruised to a 2-0 victory over Butembe, a result that propelled them to the summit of the Nendha group with eight points.
The tone was set early when Sizomu Benjamin netted the opener in the 10th minute. Fourteen minutes later, he turned provider, delivering a precise cross that Owor Armstrong lashed home from the edge of the box to double the lead.
Butembe’s best chance came in the 43rd minute, but Wambuzi Yusuf’s strike rattled the woodwork. Despite late pressure in the second half, Kigulu’s defense—anchored by midfield enforcer Mwesigwa Jonathan, who was named Man of the Match—stood firm.
The result leaves Butembe bottom of the table on just two points, while Bukooli Namayingo climbed to second with six points after a commanding 3-0 win over Busiki, who slipped to third with five points.
Updated Standings
- Mawembe Group: Bugweri lead with 10 points, followed by Bukono (7) and Budiope (6) with two games left.
- Nendha Group: Kigulu top with 8 points, Bukooli Namayingo (6), Busiki (5), and Butembe bottom with 2.
The tournament resumes midweek in Kamuli. On Wednesday, Bugabula host Bukooli Bugiri at Kamuli Municipal Stadium, while Buzaaya entertain Bunha on Thursday at Lwanyama Primary School.
With group tables tightening and fans braving even the harshest weather, the MTN Busoga Masaza Cup—powered by Kabode continues to deliver thrilling football and community passion.
