Kigulu FC’s goalkeeper John Collins Wesonga tries to stretch himself to capture the ball that was already in the back of the net during penalties with Butembe FC as they were playing a semi final game during the MTN Busoga Masaza Cup tournament 2023 at Kyabazinga Stadium Bugembe in Jinja City on December 15.
The semi-final stage of the MTN Busoga Masaza Cup unfolded with Butembe and Busiki securing hard-fought victories, propelling them into the much-coveted final. The stage is now set for a thrilling championship clash on December 30 at Kakindu Stadium, promising football enthusiasts an enthralling culmination to this prestigious tournament.
Semi-Final Drama Unfolds
Butembe 1(4)-1(1) Kigulu
The clash between Butembe and two-time champions Kigulu unfolded in dramatic fashion at Bugembe Stadium. Despite a soggy playing surface and a late 4:45 pm kick-off, Butembe emerged as 4-1 victors after a penalty shootout.
Right back Mikel Abasa set the tone for Butembe with a splendid direct corner, netting his third goal of the campaign in the 25th minute. Kigulu responded when Butembe’s keeper, Peter Kadama, bundled in Amos Tatambula’s cross ten minutes into the second half.
A series of remarkable saves by Kadama in the 65th minute ensured the game would be settled in a shootout. Butembe’s coach, Afan Ikoba, reflected on their strategy, stating, “We knew we were against a very worthy finalist with very good players, and we had to settle for an early goal strategy that was vital.”
Despite Kigulu’s valiant efforts, they fell short in the shootout, with only Sula Kisubi finding the net. Butembe’s Maurice Isabirye, Simon Mutinda, and Tonny Tulituka secured the victory, propelling Butembe into the finals. Kigulu’s head coach, Siraj Bogere, conceded defeat, acknowledging, “It was their day.”
Busiki 0(4)-0(3) Bugabula
In another enthralling encounter, Busiki secured their place in the finals with a 4-3 shootout win over Bugabula following a goalless draw at Gaddafi Arena. Despite the absence of goals in regular time, the intensity was palpable as both teams battled for a spot in the championship match.
The shootout drama unfolded, and Busiki emerged victorious, earning the right to compete in their first-ever final. The disappointment was palpable for Bugabula, who will now face Kigulu in the third-place playoff.
Final Showdown Beckons
With the semi-final dust settled, the stage is set for a thrilling final between Butembe and Busiki at Kakindu Stadium on December 30. Both teams demonstrated resilience and skill in their respective shootout victories, leaving fans eager to witness who will emerge as the MTN Busoga Masaza Cup champion.
The final promises high stakes, with a trophy and prize money of Shs 12m for the winner and Shs 8m for the runners-up. Football enthusiasts can expect an intense battle as Butembe and Busiki vie for glory in the culmination of this year’s prestigious tournament.
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