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Butembe and Busiki Secure Thrilling Wins to Reach MTN Busoga Masaza Cup Finals

What you need to know:

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.

Butembe FC's Simon Mutida (left) and Sowedi Lwenda (middle) fighting for the ball with Kigulu FC's Ibra Kasakya (right) while in water-logged field as they were playing a semi final game during the MTN Busoga Masaza Cup

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.

Butembe FC's Isa Balaba (right) chasing for the ball with his Kigulu FC opponents (in blue jersey) while in water-logged field as they were playing a semi final game during the MTN Busoga Masaza Cup tournament 2023

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."

Butembe supporters jubilating after their team scoring against Kigulu FC during a semi final game of the MTN Busoga Masaza Cup tournament 2023 at Kyabazinga Stadium Bugembe in Jinja City on December 15th.


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

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