On Saturday night, Buddu emerged victorious, clinching their third Masaza Cup title in an intense battle towards Kyaggwe at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole. It was an exciting scene as followers stuffed the stadium, celebrating the return of the Masaza Cup to this iconic venue for the primary time since 2019. The sport drew an enthusiastic crowd, with Buddu supporters cheering in full power as they anticipated yet one more title for his or her staff.
The sport’s defining second got here early, within the twenty second minute. Buddu’s ahead, Mike Walaga, completely positioned himself to fulfill a skillful cross from captain Pius Ssebulime. Walaga’s exact header left Kyaggwe’s goalkeeper, Peter “Dhaira” Katongole, with no likelihood, sending the ball into the again of the online and igniting a roar from Buddu followers throughout the stands. The scoreline remained unchanged, as Buddu’s protection held agency towards Kyaggwe’s decided assaults. One of Kyaggwe’s finest probabilities got here simply earlier than halftime when Yosam Ssembalirwa narrowly missed a free header, a lot to the dismay of Kyaggwe’s supporters.
The Kabaka of Buganda, His Majesty Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, graced the occasion, including grandeur to the ultimate. It was his first time attending the Masaza Cup last since 2022, and his presence highlighted the cultural significance of this match in Buganda. For Buddu, this victory added a 3rd title to their legacy, following wins in 2016 and 2022. They have confronted their share of disappointment, with losses in previous finals towards Ssingo and Gomba, however Saturday’s triumph firmly reestablished them as one of many match’s most resilient groups.
For Kyaggwe, nevertheless, the defeat was bittersweet. Reaching the ultimate was a historic achievement, marking their first time competing at this degree within the match. Their journey to the ultimate had been no simple feat, having battled previous Ssingo and Buweekula in earlier rounds. But Buddu’s early aim proved to be the one distinction, as Kyaggwe’s efforts to degree the match have been met by Buddu’s staunch protection till the ultimate whistle.
The day additionally featured a third-place playoff, the place Buweekula clinched bronze with a 3-1 victory over Kyaddondo. However, the evening belonged to Buddu, whose gamers, coaches, and followers celebrated below the stadium lights, marking the top of one other memorable Masaza Cup season.
