The Busoga Masaza Cup returns this weekend with an electrifying doubleheader at Kyabazinga Stadium, Bugembe. The early semi-final clash on Saturday, October 18th at 12:00 PM will see Bukooli Namayingo and Kigulu rekindle their rivalry in what promises to be a heated repeat of the 2022 final, where Bukooli Namayingo emerged champions after a narrow 1-0 win.
This encounter sets the stage for redemption, pride, and a place in the 2025 final — with both teams backed by strong history and passionate supporters.
Kigulu Seeking Revenge and a Return to Glory
Kigulu, one of the most decorated sides in the competition, enter the semi-final with determination to reclaim lost glory. Under coaches Eddy Kaspat Kibwika and Yusuf Bagalaliwo, the Iganga-based side have blended youth, speed, and tactical maturity.
Since the tournament’s revival in 2016, Kigulu have played in three finals, winning two back-to-back titles in 2018 and 2019, against Bunha and Butembe respectively. Their only final loss came in 2022 to Bukooli Namayingo, a wound they’ll be eager to heal this weekend.
They topped the Nhendha group and knocked out last year’s finalists Bukono 2-1 in the quarter-finals at Bugembe. Their strength lies in midfield dominance, led by Saad Mukiibi (08), the team’s engine and chief creator. Supporting him are pacy wide men Suleiman Kisubi (17) and Ukasha Mulondo (11), while Armstrong Owori (03) and John Mwesigwa (04) add defensive solidity and attacking width.
Bukooli Namayingo Aiming for Second Title
Under the experienced and tactical Coach Siraji Bogere, Bukooli Namayingo are chasing history — a second title and Bogere’s third as a manager. The 2022 champions have shown resilience and structure throughout the campaign, even when their away form wavered.
After qualifying from the group stages with nine points, all earned from home wins, Bukooli Namayingo squeezed past Bugweri in the quarter-finals, winning 4-2 on penalties after a tense goalless draw.
Key to their ambitions are Ismail Ndifuna (11) — a fast, clinical forward and former Busiki cup winner — and midfield general Odenga Iduma (04), known for his powerful box-to-box displays.
Defensively, Mangeni Derrick (05) and Soita Douglas (12) form one of the tournament’s most disciplined center-back pairings, while Sanya Hassan (06) provides balance, both shielding the backline and linking play forward.
Head-to-Head
The two sides met twice in the group stage — each winning their home game. Kigulu edged Bukooli Namayingo 2-1 in Iganga, while Bukooli Namayingo responded with a 1-0 win in Namayingo. Both finished level on nine points, proving how evenly matched they are.
Kigulu’s last semi-final appearance in 2023 ended in heartbreak, losing to Butembe on penalties at Kakindu Stadium. Bukooli Namayingo, meanwhile, last reached the semis in 2022 — and went on to lift the trophy.
Predicted Line-Ups
Bukooli Namayingo (Coach: Siraji Bogere)
Ouma Samuel (GK), Kyeyune Fahad (13), Mangeni Derrick (05), Soita Douglas (12), Sanya Hassan (06), Nalugoda Yona (08), Odenga Isima (04), Emmanuel Ogwanga (16), Ismail Ndifuna (11), Baraza Levis Okello (07), Sanyaa Edrine (18)
Kigulu (Coach: Eddy Kaspat Kibwika)
James Mukisa (GK), Armstrong Owori (03), Suleiman Kisubi (17), Hassan Waiswa (15), Rashid Kamya (06), John Mwesigwa (04), Allan Ojambo (12), Saad Mukiibi (08), Aliba Kiyemba (14), Benjamin Mbokani (09), Ukasha Mulondo (11)
Will Kigulu avenge their 2022 defeat, or will Bukooli Namayingo march back to the final in style?.
