This marks Buddu’s third Masaza Cup title, following previous wins in 2016 and 2022. However, Buddu has also faced disappointment in past finals, having lost to Ssingo in 2015 and 2018, and to Gomba in 2021.
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Buddu Players celebrating. Courtesy Picture
Buddu clinched the Masaza Cup title on Saturday,
defeating Kyaggwe 1-0 in a hard-fought final at Mandela National
Stadium, Namboole.
This year’s final marked the first return of the Masaza
Cup to Namboole since 2019 when Bulemeezi claimed a 1-0 win over Busiro.
The match saw a spirited crowd, with Buddu supporters
dominating the stands as they celebrated their team's triumph in the 2024
Masaza Cup.
The match’s decisive moment came in the 22nd minute when
Buddu striker Mike Walaga headed in a precise cross from Pius Ssebulime.
Walaga’s goal ultimately sealed the victory for Buddu in a tense encounter that
kept fans on edge until the final whistle.
Kyaggwe pushed hard to equalize, with one of their best
chances falling to Yosam Ssembalirwa, who missed a free header just before
halftime. But, despite their efforts, Kyaggwe was unable to break through
Buddu’s defence, handing Buddu the win.
The final was graced by the presence of Kabaka Ronald
Muwenda Mutebi II, who attended the Masaza Cup final for the first time since
2022 when it was held at St. Mary’s Stadium in Kitende.
This marks Buddu’s third Masaza Cup title, following
previous wins in 2016 and 2022. However, Buddu has also faced disappointment in
past finals, having lost to Ssingo in 2015 and 2018, and to Gomba in 2021. On
the other hand, Kyaggwe reached the Masaza Cup final for the first time in the
team’s history.
In their journey to the final, Buddu overcame Kabula in
the quarterfinals and Kyaddondo in the semifinals. Kyaggwe earned their place
in the final by defeating Ssingo and Buweekula.
But before the final, in the third-place playoff held
earlier on Saturday, Buweekula secured a 3-1 victory over Kyaddondo to claim
the bronze medal.
