The MTN Busoga Masaza Cup served up another weekend of shocks as defending champions Butembe were dumped out on Saturday while Bukono missed their chance to top the Mawembe group on Sunday.
At Mafubira Kavule Primary School, holders Butembe needed victory to survive but were held to a tense 0-0 draw by Busiki. Goalkeeper Andrew Aboket was the difference, making a series of first-half stops to deny Asuman Kayondo, Arshraf Ocen, Ivan Nakalanga and Hussein Ssenyonga.
Frustration spilled over late, with Gideon Nsubuga of Busiki and Butembe’s Martin Luba both sent off for indecent conduct. The result sealed Butembe’s exit with just six points, their first group-stage elimination since the tournament began in 2016. Busiki also bowed out with seven points.
Bukooli Namayingo edged Kigulu 1-0 through a Levis Baraza strike, taking both sides to nine points and into the quarterfinals from what had been called the tournament’s “group of death.” They joined Bunha, Bugweri, Bugabula, Luuka and Bukono in the last eight. One spot remains, to be decided Thursday when Buzaaya face Bulamogi.
Coach Isaac Kitakule admitted the holders fell short. “We tried our best amidst challenges but results didn’t go our way. We apologize to our fans,” he said. Busiki coach Nasibu Ndita vowed to regroup for next year.
On Sunday, Bukono arrived in Bugadde with only 11 players and no substitutes to face Bunhole Bunanhumba. The fatigue showed as they settled for a goalless draw. Kalidasi Sinani had an early strike ruled offside for the hosts, while Bukono’s best chance came when Mupere Joel’s long-range effort in the 74th minute missed by inches.
The result left Bukono second in the group behind Bugweri, pending a disciplinary ruling on Bugweri’s unplayed match with Budiope, who failed to show.
The quarterfinal picture will be clearer after Wednesday’s clash between Luuka and Bugabula at Busalaamu Primary School and Thursday’s Buzaaya vs Bulamogi tie at Bulumba Ginnery in Kaliro.
