Buddu has emerged as the winner of the 20th Edition of the Masaza Cup defeating Kyaggwe in a 1-0 win. The 3-time winners of the tournament enjoyed their win at the newly revamped Mandela National Stadium in Namboole after the tournament took a 4-year hiatus from the venue. The match was graced by the Kabaka of Buganda, His Majesty Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II.
The thrilling encounter saw both teams push to their limits, with Buddu showcasing remarkable resilience and tactical skill to secure the win. Kyaggwe, challenged Buddu at every turn, making for an exhilarating display of football. 18 teams from the 18 counties participated in the tournament.
This year’s edition was themed around fighting against HIV and AIDS, rallying the men in the kingdom and the country at large to join in the fight to end HIV/AIDS by 2030.
Ali Balunywa, Director Sales and Distribution, Airtel Uganda congratulated the winners on their win and thanked them for their unwavering dedication to their counties. He said, “I congratulate both teams for the spirit and skill they brought to the game, Buddu for the win and Kyaggwe for the resilient fight. Such tournaments mean that the players have a platform from where they can be scouted to play in other leagues. As Airtel Uganda, we are proud when young talent is nurtured to greater heights.”
“I want to thank the Kabaka for his presence at the game and the love that he has always shown to his people. Airtel remains committed to supporting initiatives that unite and inspire the youth. We look forward to witnessing and being part of the next edition of the tournament,” Balunywa added.
The Masaza Cup is a football tournament introduced in 2004 by the Buganda Kingdom to groom talent among youth across the different counties, or Masaza, that make up the Buganda Kingdom and the surrounding regions.
Speaking on behalf of the Kingdom, Oweek. Charles Peter Mayiga, the Katikiro of Buganda re-echoed the purpose of the tournament. He said, “This year’s tournament was a continued celebration of sportsmanship and unity, and we commend Buddu for their outstanding victory as well as Kyaggwe for their commendable performance. We are mostly grateful for the Kabaka’s presence which reflects the importance of this tournament to our heritage and the strength it brings to Buganda. I also extend my appreciation to our partners like Airtel Uganda for their support”
“The Masaza Cup continues to be a cherished tradition, bringing together communities and showcasing the rich talent across the kingdom,” Balunywa concluded.
As the tournament ends, attention now turns to future editions, as teams and fans alike look forward to more remarkable moments in Ugandan football.
