By Musa Kikuuno | BusogaTimes.com
Group Stages
Nendha Group
Butembe
Busiki
Kigulu
Bukooli Namayingo
Mawembe Group
Bukono
Bunhole Bunanumba
Budiope
Bugweri
Bukowe Group
Bugabula
Luuka
Bukooli Bugiri
Kagulu Group
Buzaya
Bulamogi
Bunha
Knockout Stage
Winner Nendha vs Runners-up Mawembe
Winner Mawembe vs Runners-up Nendha
Winner Bukowe vs Runners-up Kagulu
Winner Kagulu vs Runners-up Bukowe
Semi-Finals
Winner of Match 1 vs Winner of Match 2
Winner of Match 3 vs Winner of Match 4
The roar of the crowd, the vibrant colors, and the unbridled passion for football will soon engulf the Kingdom of Busoga once again. The 8th edition of the MTN Busoga Masaza Cup is just around the corner, kicking off on Saturday, June 28th, 2025, with a highly anticipated clash between hosts Budiope and Bukono at Irundu Primary School in Buyende District.
The announcement, delivered by the Minister of Sports in the Kingdom of Busoga, Owek. Amin Bbosa Nkono, during a meeting with Masaza Football Chairpersons and CEOs at Kyabazinga headquarters in Bugembe, has ignited a wave of excitement throughout the region.
“We are thrilled to announce the return of the MTN Busoga Masaza Cup,” said Owek. Amin Bbosa Nkono. “MTN Uganda remains our proud sponsor, and we shall communicate the date for the official launch soon.”
The tournament, known for its ability to unite communities and showcase local talent, promises to be even more competitive this year, thanks to a particularly intriguing group stage draw.
All Former Champions Clashed in One ‘Group of Death’
Perhaps the biggest talking point surrounding this year’s edition is the unprecedented grouping of all four former champions in a single group – the aptly named Nendha Group. This “Group of Death” features:
- Butembe:Â Champions in 2017 and 2024
- Busiki:Â Champions in 2023
- Kigulu:Â Champions in 2018 and 2019
- Bukooli Namayingo:Â Champions in 2022
This historically significant draw guarantees an intense and competitive group stage, with only two teams from Nendha Group advancing to the knockout rounds. The stakes are incredibly high, promising nail-biting encounters and potential upsets as Busoga’s most decorated footballing counties battle for survival.
Group Stage Line-up
The 14 participating counties, representing Busoga’s 11 chiefdoms, have been divided into four groups, each promising unique challenges and rivalries. Details about the other groups are eagerly awaited.
Following the group stages, the top two teams from each group will qualify for the quarter-finals, setting the stage for an even more intense battle for the coveted title.
The Road Ahead
With the tournament opener less than three weeks away, the atmosphere across Busoga is electric. The pressure is on, particularly for teams in the fiercely competitive Nendha Group.
Bukooli Namayingo, who are currently focused on rebuilding their technical team, face a daunting task, while Butembe, riding high after their 2024 triumph, will be determined to defend their crown against formidable opposition.
The 8th edition of the MTN Busoga Masaza Cup is poised to be a spectacle, a celebration of Basoga culture, and a testament to the power of football to unite communities.
All eyes will be on the field as these counties battle it out for glory, etching their names into the history books of the MTN Busoga Masaza Cup. Get ready for a month of thrilling action, unforgettable moments, and the crowning of a new champion!
