Masaza: Bugweri beats defending champions Busiki in front of watching Kyabazinga

BUGWERI | The Kyabazinga of Busoga William Gabula Nadiope launched this year's MTN Busoga Masaza Cup in front of a packed and cheerful crowd at Bugweri Saza grounds.

Hosts Bugweri beat defending champions Busiki 2-0 to set the tone for the traditional tournament.

Speaking to the Nile Post, Allan Njagala, the MTN Uganda marketing manager, said they will continue to partner with the Busoga region across the social and economic fields, such as sports.

He said it is through this that MTN can help identify raw talents.

Njagala added that that Busoga remains a strategic partner for MTN, and they shall continue to leverage all the opportunities given by the kingdom.

Bugweri’s Saza coach, Emmanuel Balyejusa, praised his team’s collective effort.

In the match, Bugweri dominate the Nendha Hill Group but could not find the opening until the 37th minute as the defending champions were determined to get something out of the opener.

Industrious winger Mathias Kasadha was the man for the moment as his corner kick was deflected into the net by Busiki’s towering defender Fahad Mukose.

After the break, Bugweri continued to press, and their persistence paid off in the 57th minute.

Kasadha, once again at the heart of the action, laid in a pass for Arafat Nkola, who hit home a stunning volley

from 25 yards to double the prize.

Bugweri defender Isma Kagere was sent off late on to give the Busiki faint hopes of resurgence but the clock was on its rest bed and Bugweri held on to secure a memorable victory.

"Our spirit of togetherness helped us win today. Now that we have a strong beginning, there's no turning back," Balyejusa said.

Busiki’s coach, Dennis Watuke, pointed to a lack of cohesion in his team.

"Our players lacked a proper combination because of coming late to the camp," Watuke said.

MTN as the main sponsors committed Shs550 million to this year's tournament with partners Nile Breweries topping up with Shs100 million.

Among the rules for this year's edition include only those with National IDs indicating Busoga districts as their abode shall be allowed to participate and all professional players above 17 years shall not be allowed to participate in the tournament.

Results

Bugweri 2-0 Busiki

Sat, 10th Aug 24 | 4pm

Bukono vs Bugabula

Luuka vs Kigulu

Bukooli vs Butembe