Uganda: Bugweri Start Busoga Masaza Cup Campaign With Victory Over Busiki

What the report says

Bugweri opened their MTN Busoga Masaza Cup campaign with a 1-0 win over Busiki in the tournament’s first match, played at the Namutumba District Headquarters Playground on Saturday, according to Nile Post as distributed by AllAfrica. The match was formally launched by the Kyabazinga of Busoga, William Gabula Nadiope IV, adding ceremonial weight to the season opener.

The decisive moment came in the second half when Bugweri forward Kiyemba Ali headed in a corner from Tom Babalanda in the 62nd minute. Both teams had created chances before halftime, but neither side scored. Bugweri later missed opportunities to extend the lead, while Busiki pushed for an equalizer late in the game.

Busiki briefly thought it had levelled through substitute Nicolas Mukibi, but the effort was ruled out for offside. That allowed Bugweri to see out the result and collect three points. Bugweri coach Umaru Matende said the win was important in a high-pressure opening fixture and set a target of reaching at least the quarter-finals this season. Busiki coach Denis Watuke pointed to the team’s late preparations and less advanced build-up as factors in the defeat.

Tom Babalanda was named man of the match, with both he and Busiki captain Tibita Rajabu receiving cash prizes from MTN Uganda. The report also noted that this year’s competition is tied to a social message about men’s role in addressing teenage pregnancy in Busoga. Bugweri’s next match is against Bukooli Namayingo, while Busiki will face Bukooli Bugiri in the next round of group-stage fixtures scheduled for August 30.