Butembe Crowned Champions of the 2024 Busoga Masaza Cup

All knockout matches of this year’s MTN Busoga Masaza Cup were marred by slippery conditions at Bugembe Stadium.

However, Sunday's highly anticipated final lived up to expectations, delivering a thrilling contest in front of a capacity crowd, including the Kyabazinga of Busoga.

Four-time finalists Butembe edged Bukono 1-0 to claim this year’s title. The decisive moment came in the 11th minute when Ivan Nakalanda unleashed a thunderous strike that beat Bukono’s nervous goalkeeper, Kenneth Otema.

Butembe nearly doubled their lead just before halftime when Obadiah Kibirige’s shot struck the upright, causing tension among the large crowd.

In the second half, Bukono’s coach introduced speedy winger Christopher Ngobi, whose dynamic play caused trouble for Butembe’s defense. Despite his efforts, teammates Osmail Mukwahawa and Hassan Mutyaba squandered several goal-scoring opportunities. Butembe’s defense, led by Jonathan Waisswa and Umaru Asirikwa, stood firm under pressure, passing a late test to secure their second title after four finals.

“Although we had a strong first half, our attacking rhythm was disrupted in the second half, especially after our goal-scorer Nakalanda was substituted due to a knock,” said Bosco Mugerwa, Butembe’s head coach. “We were determined not to lose another final, thanks to our passionate supporters and our patron, Edrine Lufafa, who inspired the team.”

Bukono’s coach, Martin Amodoi, acknowledged Butembe’s determination: “Our late comeback efforts were not enough, and a nervy start in the first half cost us. Butembe was the better team today, and I congratulate them.”

The Busoga Kingdom’s Deputy Minister of Sports lauded the impressive turnout throughout this year’s tournament.

Butembe’s victory earned them their second title, joining Kigulu as the most successful teams in the tournament’s seven-year history. They were awarded a trophy and a cash prize of sh 13 million, while runners-up Bukono received sh 9 million.

Bugabula, who secured third place, walked away with sh 6 million, and Buzaaya, the fourth-placed team, received UGX 4 million.

Bugabula’s Saidi Kazindula emerged as the tournament’s top scorer with seven goals.

The 2024 MTN Busoga Masaza Cup, which began in August, featured 12 teams: Butembe, Bukono, Bugabula, Buzaaya, Bulamogi, Bunha, Bunhole-Bunhanumba, Bukooli Bugiri, Bukooli Namayingo, Luuka, Bugweri, and Kigulu.