Busoga Kingdom Football Action: Bukono Edged by Bugweri, Buzaya Held to a Stalemate by Butembe
In a thrilling weekend of football action, the MTN Busoga Masaza Cup treated fans to two exciting matches on Saturday and Sunday. Let's dive into the highlights of these encounters.
Saturday's Clash: Bukono vs. Bugweri
The showdown at Ivukula sub county playground in Namutumba District featured an emotional roller coaster as Bukono went head-to-head with Bugweri. The home fans, showing a remarkable display of loyalty, filled the stands in large numbers to support their beloved team.
However, their loyalty was tested in the 33rd minute when Alivi Gavamukulya of Bugweri found the back of the net. The home fans could not contain their emotions and protested by entering the pitch, causing a 30-minute delay. Busoga Kingdom officials stepped in to restore order, and the match resumed.
Bukono showed their fighting spirit when William Kivayo equalised in the 45th minute. Both teams displayed formidable attacks, with standout performances from Farouk Muwaya of Bugweri and Twaya Mukose, who made outstanding saves for Bukono.
But it was Bashir Ouma of Bugweri who had the final say, scoring a free kick near the corner flag and securing a 2-1 victory for his team. Bugweri moved joint top of the Bukowe hill group with 3 points, setting the stage for an exciting competition.
Bukono's tactician, Umaru Matende, praised his team's performance, saying, "We bagged home three points late against a very unpredictable team. My subs plan was indeed spot on as we proved a better side slightly."
Sunday's Showdown: Buzaya vs. Butembe
Sunday brought another intense encounter as Buzaya hosted Butembe at Kasambira Church of Uganda Primary School playground. Buzaya's head coach, Andrew Mugaga, was left frustrated as his team squandered numerous goal-scoring opportunities despite dominating the match.
Collins Wakowera, Buzaya's speedy winger, kept the Butembe defenders on their toes with his relentless runs and through balls. However, Butembe's central defender, Isa Balaba, made several crucial goal-line clearances to keep his team in the game.
Butembe's only notable chance came in the second half when Andrew Likalu struck the crossbar, making it an evenly contested affair.
Butembe head coach Ikoba Afan expressed his satisfaction with the valuable away point, saying, "I am very happy with this valuable away point that will indeed play a key role for our stake as group leaders."
On the other side, Andrew Mugaga lamented his team's lack of finishing, saying, "It's so disappointing that in front of this large crowd, we failed to capitalize on our territorial possession with goals because my strikers lacked striking skills."
Bukono chiefdom FC players (in green jersays) playing against Bugweri chiefdom FC players (in white Jersays) during the MTN Busoga Masaza Cup tournament at Ivukula sub-county headquarters in Namutumba district on Sat
Man of the match Collins Wakowera called for improved sharpness to please the fans, stating, "These amazing crowds have been brought in by MTN sponsorship. It's indeed calling for us to improve on our sharpness to please our fans."
With this weekend's results, Butembe tops the Mawembe group with 4 points from two matches, while Buzaya looks to regroup before their next match against Bukooli Bugiri.
The matches also attracted distinguished guests, including the First Deputy Prime Minister, the Minister of East African
Community Affairs, Alitwala Kadaga, and Jinja North FC President Ronnie Isiko. The MTN Busoga Masaza Cup continues to be a platform for thrilling football action and community engagement.
Match Results:
- Saturday: Bukono 1-2 Bugweri
- Sunday: Buzaya 0-0 Butembe
