Butembe ended their six-year wait for glory by edging past Bukono 1-0 in a pulsating final at Bugembe Stadium on Sunday. In front of a capacity crowd, which included the Kyabazinga of Busoga, Ivan Nakalanda’s early strike sealed Butembe’s second championship title in the tournament’s seven-year history.
The match lived up to its billing, showcasing skill, determination, and a tense battle between two well-prepared sides. Butembe, appearing in their fourth final, were determined to shake off their tag as perennial runners-up. Their resolve paid off in just the 11th minute when Nakalanda unleashed a thunderous shot that sailed past Bukono’s visibly nervous goalkeeper, Kenneth Otema.
Butembe nearly doubled their lead before the break, with Obadiah Kibirige rattling the crossbar in the 45th minute, sending a wave of anxiety through the passionate supporters. Bukono’s first-half struggles were evident, with their nerves affecting their ability to execute key plays.
Bukono’s resurgence came in the second half, sparked by the introduction of speedy winger Christopher Ngobi. His tireless work down the right flank created opportunities for Ismail Mukwahawa and Hassan Mutyaba, but both forwards squandered crucial chances, sending their efforts off target. Despite Bukono’s late charge, Butembe’s backline, marshaled by Jonathan Waisswa and Umaru Asirikwa, held firm under intense pressure.
Speaking after the match, Butembe head coach Bosco Mugerwa expressed his pride in the team’s performance and resilience. “Much as we had a good first half, our attacking prowess was put to the test in the second half after Nakalanda was forced off with a knock. However, our team’s fighting spirit, inspired by our passionate supporters and patron Edrine Lufafa, carried us through,” Mugerwa said.
Bukono’s coach, Martin Amodoi, lamented his team’s nervous start and missed opportunities. “Much as we tried to make a late comeback, my game plan was derailed by our shaky start. We faced a team that was simply hungrier to lift the title, and I congratulate Butembe on their victory,” Amodoi remarked.
The tournament concluded with Butembe receiving the coveted trophy and a cash prize of UGX 13 million, while Bukono walked away with UGX 9 million. Bugabula secured third place and UGX 6 million, with Buzaya earning UGX 4 million for their fourth-place finish. Bugabula’s Saidi Kazindula was awarded the tournament’s top scorer accolade after netting seven goals.
Reflecting on the success of this year’s competition, the Busoga Kingdom’s Deputy Minister of Sports acknowledged the impressive turnout throughout the tournament. “The large crowds that graced this year’s edition are a testament to the growing popularity of the MTN Busoga Masaza Cup,” he said.
The 2024 MTN Busoga Masaza Cup featured 12 teams: Butembe, Bukono, Bugabula, Buzaya, Bulamogi, Bunha, Bunhole-Bunhanumba, Bukooli Bugiri, Bukooli Namayingo, Luuka, Bugweri, and Kigulu. The tournament kicked off in August and delivered thrilling football action, culminating in a dramatic final that highlighted the best of Busoga’s footballing talent.
