The 2025 Masaza Cup has been rocked by fresh controversy after Butambala Ssaza FC players abandoned camp in protest over their clash with Ssingo on Sunday at Ssaza Grounds in Mityana.
The match, which drew a large crowd, saw Butambala take the lead in the 28th minute through Daniel Bakaki, maintaining a 1–0 advantage at halftime. However, tempers flared in the 75th minute when Ssingo scored a disputed equalizer while three balls were on the pitch.
According to football regulations, play must be stopped if an extra ball interferes with the game. Despite the linesman flagging the situation, center referee Hassadu Ssemere controversially allowed the goal to stand after consulting his assistant.
The decision sparked outrage from Butambala players, officials, and supporters.
Five Butambala players were booked for dissent before the technical bench ordered the team off the pitch to avoid further chaos, leading to the abandonment of the game.
Team manager Hajji Adam Ggolooba Ntale said he sought immediate intervention from Buganda’s Minister of Sports, Robert Sserwanga, but no action was taken at the time.
“We have written to the Masaza Tournament Committee and are waiting for their response,” Ntale told reporters, insisting the decision must be reviewed and overturned.
The Masaza Tournament Organising Committee has not yet issued an official statement on the matter.