The Busoga Masaza Cup enters its quarterfinal stage this weekend with four highly anticipated fixtures that promise thrills, history, and drama. The 8th edition of the tournament has already produced surprises, and the knockout battles scheduled for Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th October 2025 will decide who advances to the semifinals set for October 11th.
Saturday Fixtures
Kigulu vs Bukono – 12:00 noon
The quarterfinals kick off with a heavyweight clash between two-time champions Kigulu and last season’s runners-up Bukono. Kigulu, winners in 2018 and 2019, carry pedigree and experience into this tie. They topped Nhendha group with 9 points, scoring five goals and conceding just three despite being grouped with three former champions—Butembe, Busiki, and Bukooli Namayingo. Remarkably, Kigulu has never failed to qualify for the knockouts since 2016.
This fixture brings back memories of 2016 when Kigulu crushed Bukono 6–0 on aggregate at the same stage. The Iganga-based side boasts key players such as Kisubi Suleiman (17), Mukiibi Saad (08), and Mundwa Boniface (10).
However, Bukono cannot be underestimated. They finished second in Mawembe group with 11 points, the second-best tally in the group stages, just behind Bugweri. Bukono’s forward line has been lethal, netting 10 goals—the highest so far in this year’s competition. Striker Ivan Mupere (17) already has a hat-trick to his name and will be supported by Emmanuel Nabola (7) and Abel Muwola (11). Having reached the final last year, Bukono is eager to avenge past scars against Kigulu and stake their claim for glory.
Bugweri vs Bukooli Namayingo – 3:00 pm
Later on Saturday, high-flying Bugweri lock horns with Bukooli Namayingo in what promises to be a tactical battle. Bugweri topped Mawembe group with 13 points—the highest tally among all teams this year. Ranked the number one side so far, Bugweri is targeting its first-ever semifinal berth after falling short in 2019 and 2023. Key men include Emayu Calvin Peter (17), who lifted the University Football League with UCU last year, Sekibobo Juma (08), and Kagera Isima (10).
Bukooli Namayingo, coached by the experienced Siraji Bogere—the first-ever manager to win this cup in 2016—bring solid defensive organization to the contest. With a center-back pairing of Mangeni Derrick and Soita Douglas (12), ranked second-best in the tournament, they will be tough to break down. Bukooli Namayingo, winners in 2022, are making their third consecutive quarterfinal appearance. Their danger men include Baraza Levis Okello (7) and Hassan Sanyaa (6).
Sunday Fixtures
Luuka vs Bulamoogi – 12:00 noon
Sunday’s early kick-off pits tournament dark horses Luuka against first-time quarterfinalists Bulamoogi. Luuka, who last reached this stage in 2016, emerged top of Bukowe group on goal difference over Bugabula with 9 points. They have shown defensive resilience, led by center-back Isabirye Edirine and goalkeeper Kairugavu Ali (1). Other key figures include Karogo Farouk (16) and Baluzibye Umaru (7).
Bulamoogi, meanwhile, are the fairytale story of this edition. After four failed attempts, they finally broke through to the knockouts, finishing with 5 points—the lowest tally among quarterfinalists. Their spirited campaign recalls the recent underdog stories of Bukooli Namayingo (2022 champions), Busiki (2023 champions), and Bukono (2024 finalists). Players to watch include Kiiza Amuza (18), Abudallah Kasolo (7), and Hassan Wasswa (10).
Bunha vs Bugabula – 3:00 pm
The final quarterfinal fixture brings together Bunha and Bugabula in a clash of giants. Bunha, unbeaten this edition with one win and three draws, topped Kagulu group with 6 points. A consistent performer, Bunha has reached seven of the eight quarterfinals in the tournament’s history, missing out only in 2018. Of their six previous appearances at this stage, they advanced to the semifinals three times. Key players include Abasi Mikel (02), Koire Bakali (17), and Karim Mutebe (11).
Bugabula, on the other hand, have reached the semifinals in each of the last three editions but are still chasing their first-ever final. With the best central defensive pairing in the tournament—David Balondemu and Yiga Keith—they remain a formidable force. Goalkeeper Regan Mudusu (18) has kept three clean sheets in all the three games he has played for his side, while midfielder Kimuli Michael (06) provides box-to-box energy. The return of star forward Ibrahim Musisi Kazindula, last year’s top scorer, could be decisive if he regains full fitness. Other players to watch include Edgar Magombe (09).
The Road to the Semifinals
The winner between Kigulu and Bukono will meet either Bugweri or Bukooli Namayingo in the semifinals. On the other side of the draw, the victor between Luuka and Bulamoogi will face the winner of Bunha versus Bugabula. The semifinals are scheduled for Saturday, October 11, 2025, at a yet-to-be-announced venue.
