Bugabula FC’s perfect start to this year’s Busoga Masaza Cup came to a dramatic halt on Wednesday 24th Sept after a 1–0 loss to Luuka at Busalaamu Primary School playground. The defeat marked their first of the tournament and also saw them concede their first goal, courtesy of Gonza Muzaham’s second-half penalty.
Despite heavy rains in the second half, play continued, but all eyes were on Bugabula’s Tony Kalyesubula, who collapsed on the pitch in the 45th minute, leaving players, officials, and fans in shock.
Bugabula captain Ibrahim Musisi Kazindula explained that several players in the squad had been unwell during the tournament. “Tony had a simple illness and maybe dizziness caught up with him. We are praying for him and are ready to face any team that comes our way in the quarterfinals,” Kazindula said.
CEO Kabi Sharif reassured supporters that Kalyesubula had been cleared to play before the match and was now recovering well. “He had a minor issue in the first half, but he is under treatment and will be ready for the quarterfinals. We appreciate Luuka for converting their penalty, but our focus is on bouncing back,” Sharif added.
Head coach Ronald Lukungu revealed that all of Bugabula’s first eleven were absent, and Kalyesubula stepped in to back up the team. “I wanted to substitute him early after he felt dizzy, but the officials delayed the change. He collapsed on his own, but he has since stabilized, and the team traveled back to Kamuli with him,” Lukungu said.
With the group stages concluded, Luuka topped the Bukowe group with nine points, edging Bugabula on a +1 goal difference. Both teams qualified for the quarterfinals, with Bugabula set to face the Kagulu group leaders, while Luuka will play the second-placed team from Kagulu.
Other confirmed quarterfinal fixtures on Saturday, October 4, include Kigulu vs Bukono at midday and Bugweri vs Bukooli Namayingo at 4 pm.
