Bugweri Start Busoga Masaza Cup Campaign With Victory Over Busiki

Bugweri secured a winning start to their MTN Busoga Masaza Cup campaign, narrowly defeating Busiki 1-0 in the tournament's inaugural match held at the Namutumba District Headquarters Playground. The closely contested game was officially opened by the Kyabazinga of Busoga, William Gabula Nadiope IV, and was ultimately decided by a decisive second-half header.

The crucial goal came in the 62nd minute when Bugweri forward Kiyemba Ali connected with a well-placed corner kick delivered by Tom Babalanda. Despite both teams creating opportunities in an entertaining first half, neither managed to break the deadlock before the interval. Kiyemba Ali had further chances to extend Bugweri's lead in the second half but failed to convert.

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I am happy for the win away from home in a big opening match like this one. I told my players to take this match as though it was a final. My target this season is to at least take Bugweri past the quarter-finals.

Busiki pushed for an equalizer and appeared to have found it late in the game through substitute Nicolas Mukibi, but the goal was disallowed for offside. Bugweri's head coach, Umaru Matende, expressed satisfaction with the away victory, emphasizing its importance as an opening fixture. "I am happy for the win away from home in a big opening match like this one. I told my players to take this match as though it was a final. My target this season is to at least take Bugweri past the quarter-finals," Matende stated.

Busiki coach Denis Watuke attributed the loss partly to his team's delayed preparations, noting that their opponents were better prepared. Bugweri midfielder Tom Babalanda was recognized as Man of the Match for his performance, while Busiki captain Tibita Rajabu was named the Second Best Player. This year's MTN Busoga Masaza Cup also carries a social message under the theme "Abasaadha ne'mpango," which translates to "Men are the pillars in ending teenage pregnancies," aiming to highlight men's role in addressing teenage pregnancy and promoting responsible parenthood.

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We assembled the team late. I think our opponents were more prepared. I hear they had two friendlies, while for us, this was both a friendly and competitive match. The opponents were also more aggressive than us, and all that comes back to preparations.