The MTN Busoga Masaza Cup powered by Kabode produced another gripping weekend, with defending champions Butembe clawing back into quarterfinal contention on Friday before Bunhole Bunanhumba stunned Budiope with a stoppage-time winner on Sunday.
At Mafubira Kavule Primary School, Butembe finally looked like last season’s champions as they edged Bukooli Namayingo 1-0.
Coming into the tie with just two points from four matches, Isaac Kitakule’s side relied on grit and a passionate home crowd to stay alive. Goalkeeper Sadiq Kalabuki pulled off two key first-half saves before substitute Erias Kayima slotted home Ashraf Ocen’s cutback in the 67th minute.
The victory lifted Butembe to five points, three behind group leaders Kigulu. “This gives us belief we can still qualify for the quarters. No one writes us off till the last whistle,” said Kitakule.
Bukooli Namayingo coach Sirage Bogere rued missed chances but insisted qualification remains possible with a win in their final group game. Off the pitch, MTN Uganda handed out Kabode Super phones, with halftime juggling winner Fahad Kalinaki and match-winner Kayima among the lucky recipients.
Two days later at Bugadde Primary School, Bunhole Bunanhumba—already out of the tournament—sent Budiope packing in dramatic fashion. After skipper Mukama Muzafaru’s first-half penalty put the hosts ahead and Budiope’s Isoloza Geoffrey equalised from the spot, the game looked set for a draw.
But in stoppage time Waiswa Thomas pounced on a loose ball and rifled home to spark wild celebrations. Muzafaru was named Man of the Match and collected an MTN Kabode smartphone as Budiope bowed out with a match still to play.
Elsewhere, Bukono striker Nabola Emmanuel netted a late brace in a 2-0 win over Bugweri at Ivukula Sub County. Both Bukono and Bugweri sit on 10 points and are assured of quarterfinal places with a game to spare.
The tournament continues midweek with Bukooli Bugiri hosting Luuka at Hindocha Primary School on Wednesday, September 17, before Bunha meet Bulamogi at Wembley Playground on Thursday, September 18.
