Emotions ran high at Irundu Township Church of Uganda Primary School Grounds on Saturday as Budiope FC fell 2-0 to Bukono FC in the opening match of the 2025 MTN Busoga Masaza Cup. But the headlines after the final whistle weren’t just about the scoreline — they centered on Budiope head coach Isa Kifuuwa’s explosive post-match remarks.
The match, which followed a colorful official opening by His Majesty the Kyabazinga of Busoga, Dr. William Wilberforce Kadumbula Gabula Nadiope IV, was attended by a host of dignitaries including the Busoga Katukiro Dr. Joseph Muvawala, FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo, and Sports Minister Owek. Prince Amin Bbosa Nkono, alongside officials from MTN Uganda and other football stakeholders.
Bukono Takes Charge
Bukono dominated the game with organized and clinical play. Emmanuel Nabola scored the opener in the 61st minute, and substitute Abel Muwola sealed the win with a stoppage-time strike.Reagan Mpande, wearing jersey number 14 for Bukono, was named Man of the Match, taking home a Kabode smartphone courtesy of the tournament sponsors MTN Uganda.
Kifuuwa Unleashes Frustration
Following the defeat, Coach Isa Kifuuwa didn’t mince his words during a tense post-match interview. “Yes, it’s true we lost, but I need time and freedom to do my job. People hired me as coach but still want to dictate which players I use. That’s not how a team should operate,” he said firmly.
He also pointed to what he described as consistently poor officiating whenever Budiope plays. “That center referee again! Every game he handles involving Budiope ends in controversy. Today, we lost — but not fairly.”
Kifuuwa added that limited preparation time with his squad was also a factor in the poor performance. “I haven’t had enough time to train these boys together. But next game, with more control and preparation, expect a better result.”
