Kyaka County Crowned Tooro Kingdom MTN Masaza Cup Champions

Posted On: September 10, 2025
Posted By: Tricia Ishimwe

Kyaka County FC were crowned champions of the fourth edition of the MTN Kabode Tooro Kingdom Amasaza Cup after a commanding 2–0 victory over Fort Portal City FC in Sunday’s final at St Mary’s Major Seminary playground.

The final, which attracted hundreds of passionate fans from across the kingdom, was graced by His Majesty King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, who presided over the occasion and handed the trophy to the new champions. He was joined by Princess Ruth Komutale and several other kingdom officials.

Kyaka Strike Early and Seal the Win

Kyaka made their intentions clear within minutes of kick-off, taking the lead in the 6th minute through striker Arafat Baluku, who handed Fort Portal their first conceded goal of the tournament after four consecutive clean sheets.

Captain Fred Tumusiime then doubled the advantage in the 70th minute, ensuring Kyaka would reclaim the crown in style.

Baluku praised his side’s fighting spirit after the final whistle:

“We played a very good game from the start of the tournament and I am happy that our efforts have yielded. This tournament is not just a competition, but also an experience of sports tourism while amplifying cultural values, which are vital for the sustainability of any society.”

Despite the loss, Fort Portal striker Malik Yasin, who was named Most Valuable Player of the tournament, remained positive:

“We were unlucky, but the luckier team won. The Masaza Cup has been a valuable learning experience, giving young players their debut in such a competitive tournament. We are hopeful for a better performance next year.”

The triumph marked a historic milestone for Kyaka, who became the first county to win the Masaza Cup twice and to appear in three finals. They first lifted the title in 2022 after defeating Bunyagabu, lost the 2023 final to Mwenge South, and have now reclaimed glory in 2025.

Ironically, Kyaka advanced to the knockout stages as the best loser from Group A, finishing behind Fort Portal, who had held them to a goalless draw in the group stage.

Kyaka walked away with a trophy, medals and UGX 12 million courtesy of MTN. Runners-up Fort Portal received UGX 6 million, while third-place Burahya, who edged Mwenge South 1–0 through a goal from captain Ronald Kikonyongo, pocketed UGX 4 million. Mwenge South settled for fourth with UGX 3 million.

In addition, MTN rewarded all players and officials from both Kyaka and Fort Portal with Kabode phones.

Netball Finals Make Historic Debut

This year’s tournament also featured the inaugural Masaza Netball Cup, which saw Fort Portal defeat Mwenge South 40–38 in a tense final. Fort Portal claimed UGX 5 million, while Mwenge South walked away with UGX 2.5 million.

Toro Kingdom’s sports minister Micheal Wandera praised the inclusion of women’s sport:

“For the first time, we held the ladies’ netball finals, and it has been a success. As a kingdom we appreciate MTN and all the teams which participated.”

Toro Kingdom deputy information minister Ronald Mutegeki encouraged the youth to embrace sports, stressing its potential as a source of employment:

“Sports offer both direct and indirect job opportunities. Young people only need creativity to financially benefit from the industry.”

As the Omukama Oyo handed over the trophy to jubilant Kyaka players, the crowd erupted in celebration. For the champions, it was more than just a football victory — it was the continuation of a legacy, and proof that resilience can turn underdogs into history-makers.

Final Results: