By Our Reporter
The MTN Busoga Masaza Cup will culminate in a clash between tournament debutants Luuka and two-time champions Kigulu, following a weekend of decisive semi-final matches that ended the hopes of Bugabula and Bukooli Namayingo.
Luuka stunned Bugabula 3-1 on Saturday to reach their first-ever final, while Kigulu defeated Bukooli Namayingo 2-0 to secure a record fourth appearance in the competition’s final at Bugembe Stadium.
Bugabula, seeking to make history with a maiden final appearance, took the lead in the 42nd minute through Magidu Kazindula. But Luuka rallied in the second half, with goals from Ibrahim Kasakya, Muzaham Gonza, and Salim Nsubuga turning the game around to seal a 3-1 victory.
Luuka coach Abdallah Balikoowa said the win reflected his team’s growing confidence. “No one expected us to reach this far, but we believed in our strength and character. We are ready for any challenge in the final,” he said.
Bugabula coach Ronald Lukungu said his team paid the price for poor concentration.“We took the lead and lost focus. It’s painful for our supporters who wanted to see us in the final for the first time,” he said.
At Bugembe Stadium, Kigulu continued their dominance with a disciplined 2-0 victory over Bukooli Namayingo. After a cagey first half, Alian Odhiambo opened the scoring with a deflected free kick in the 48th minute before substitute Abbey Kavuma doubled the lead with a header from Armstrong Owor’s cross midway through the second half.
Kigulu played the final 20 minutes with ten men following the dismissal of Boniface Mundwa, but held firm to advance.
Coach Eddy Kibwika attributed the win to belief and preparation. “It’s God who has guided us from day one. The players showed commitment and maturity in a tough match,” Kibwika said.
Bukooli Namayingo’s coach, James Mangeni Bamba, said his team’s missed chances proved costly.
“We had opportunities in the first half but couldn’t convert. We lost focus in crucial moments,” he said.
Busoga Kingdom Sports Minister Amin Bbosa said the Tournament Organising Committee will announce the final date soon, adding that stricter measures will be introduced to address fan violence witnessed in earlier rounds.
The final will pit Kigulu, chasing a record third title, against a Luuka side looking to crown their first appearance in the competition’s final with silverware.
