The 2026 Masaza Cup tournament officially got underway on Saturday at the NTC Ground, home of Buweekula Ssaza, with hosts Buweekula and Kyaddondo playing to a goalless draw in an entertaining opening fixture.
The colourful launch attracted thousands of football fans, cultural leaders and local dignitaries who gathered to witness the start of Buganda’s flagship football competition.
The tournament was officially opened by the Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, who represented His Majesty the Kabaka of Buganda, Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II. In his address, Mayiga highlighted the role of the Masaza Cup in promoting unity, nurturing talent and preserving Buganda’s cultural heritage.
“The Masaza Cup is not only about football. It is a platform that unites our people, promotes discipline among the youth, and provides an opportunity for young talents to showcase their abilities. I urge all players, officials and supporters to embrace sportsmanship and uphold the values of Buganda throughout this tournament,” Mayiga said.
After the official opening, attention turned to the pitch where Buweekula and Kyaddondo engaged in a closely contested match played at a high tempo in front of a lively crowd.
Buweekula, boosted by home support, started the brighter side and created several early chances, particularly in the first half. However, they were repeatedly denied by a well-organised Kyaddondo defence and a composed goalkeeper.
Kyaddondo also threatened on the counterattack but were unable to convert their opportunities into goals. Both sides showed discipline and determination, but neither could find the decisive breakthrough.
The match ended goalless, with both teams settling for a point in their opening fixture of the campaign.
Buweekula captain Patrick Kagulire said the team had aimed for a winning start but remained optimistic about future matches.
“We wanted to start our campaign with a victory, especially in front of our home supporters who turned up in large numbers. We created chances but failed to convert them. Nevertheless, a point is better than nothing, and we shall continue working hard ahead of our next game,” Kagulire said.
Kyaddondo captain welcomed the result, describing it as a solid away performance.
“Opening matches are always difficult, especially when playing away against a determined side like Buweekula. We showed character and discipline, and earning a point here gives us confidence going into the next fixtures,” he noted.
Buweekula head coach Ibrahim Kyobe praised his side’s effort despite their missed chances.
“The players followed the game plan well and showed commitment. We only lacked the finishing touch. There are many matches ahead, and we shall improve on the areas where we fell short today,” he said.
His Kyaddondo counterpart commended his team’s defensive organisation.
“We knew Buweekula would come at us strongly because they were playing at home. The boys remained focused and executed our strategy well. This point could prove important as the tournament progresses,” the coach said.
Both sides now start their 2026 Masaza Cup campaign with one point each as they turn attention to their next fixtures.