By Musa Kikuuno
Excitement is at fever pitch as the much-anticipated 7th edition final of the Busoga Masaza Cup kicks off this sunday at the Kyabazinga Stadium in Bugembe, Jinja.
The showdown features Bukono County, making their maiden final appearance, squaring off against the seasoned Butembe County, who are in their fourth final since the tournament’s inauguration in 2016.
In an exclusive phone interview with Busoga Times, Peter Mutenga Mandwa, the CEO of Bukono County, expressed unwavering confidence in his team’s ability to emerge victorious.
“We are more than ready to face Butembe and return to Bukono with the trophy,” he declared.
Mandwa called on Bukono’s supporters to turn out in large numbers and rally behind their team, emphasizing that this moment marks a historic opportunity for Bukono.
Mandwa extended his gratitude to the Kyabazinga of Busoga, lauding the Masaza Cup for providing a platform for young talent to be discovered.
“This tournament has not only showcased talent but has also given our youth an opportunity to earn a living through sports, uplifting their standards of living,” he said.
Confident of a win, Mandwa joked, “Even Butembe knows their position is second. We are here for the first position, come rain or shine.”
On the other hand, Butembe County’s coach, Mugerwa Bosco, is equally optimistic. Speaking on the phone, Mugerwa assured fans of Butembe’s readiness to claim their second title in the tournament’s history.
“Our boys are in great shape, and the trophy is coming to Butembe,” he said.
He urged supporters from all corners of Busoga to fill the stadium and cheer on the team as they aim to “smash Bukono in front of the Kyabazinga of Busoga.”
Paul Kisige, Butembe’s assistant coach, echoed Mugerwa’s sentiments. He thanked the team’s supporters and key sponsors, including Hon. Edrine Lufafa, for their unwavering commitment.
“The better-prepared team always wins, and we are well-prepared to take the trophy home,” Kisige affirmed.
A Historic Matchup
For Bukono, this final marks the culmination of years of hard work and determination, as they make their debut appearance at this stage of the tournament.
Meanwhile, Butembe carries the weight of experience, having reached the finals in 2017, 2018, 2023, and now 2024.
However, with only one victory in 2017 against Bunha on penalties, Butembe is under pressure to secure another championship title.
The Kyabazinga of Busoga, who initiated the Masaza Cup in 2016, is expected to grace the event, highlighting the importance of this tournament in fostering unity and nurturing talent across Busoga.
Fans from both counties are expected to pack the Kyabazinga Stadium, creating an electrifying atmosphere as the two teams battle for glory.
With both camps exuding confidence, this final promises to be a thrilling spectacle that will go down in the history of the Masaza Cup.
Who will lift the coveted trophy? Will Bukono’s fairytale run end in triumph, or will Butembe’s experience prevail? The answers await as the final showdown begins.
