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David GOMBE

The 2026 Masaza Cup formally kicked off on Saturday at Mubende Nationwide Academics’ Faculty in Buweekula Ssaza, with defending champions Buweekula and Kyaddondo enjoying out a goalless draw within the match’s opening match.

The extremely attended opening fixture introduced collectively soccer followers from throughout Buganda, cultural leaders, sponsors, native leaders and soccer stakeholders in a vibrant celebration of sport, unity and neighborhood delight. The match was graced by the Katikkiro of Buganda, Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga, who represented His Majesty Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II.

Though each groups failed to seek out the again of the web, the match delivered a aggressive show, with Kyaddondo having fun with the stronger begin within the first half whereas Buweekula grew into the sport after the break. Kyaddondo captain Trevor Kalule was named Man of the Match for his composed management, defensive command and well timed clearances all through the competition.

Talking on the opening match, the Katikkiro recommended the standard of soccer and self-discipline exhibited by each groups and followers, noting that the extent of competitors within the Buganda Masaza Cup continues to rise annually. He additionally highlighted the match’s rising impression on Ugandan soccer, citing latest examples of gamers who’ve progressed from the Masaza Cup to shine at nationwide membership stage.

As one of many key sponsors of the match, Plascon Uganda reaffirmed its continued dedication to supporting the Buganda Masaza Cup, now marking its fourth 12 months of sponsorship. Plascon’s involvement within the match varieties a part of the model’s wider contribution to sports activities growth, cultural delight and neighborhood engagement throughout Uganda.

Daniel Kayongo, Plascon’s Head of Advertising and marketing famous that the Masaza Cup stays one of the crucial highly effective platforms for nurturing native soccer expertise, bringing communities collectively and celebrating the spirit of Buganda. He stated Plascon is proud to proceed standing with the match as a result of it represents the identical values the model champions by its Twaake initiative: unity, ardour, resilience and help for Ugandan sport.

He additional highlighted Plascon’s sponsorship of Buddu FC, one of many 18 groups collaborating within the Masaza Cup, as one other demonstration of the model’s direct funding in grassroots soccer. He famous that Buddu’s participation continues to present Plascon a chance to attach extra deeply with followers, gamers and communities by soccer.

He additionally thanked the followers who travelled in giant numbers to Mubende to help their groups, applauding their ardour, color and self-discipline all through the opening fixture. The power from the followers continues to make the Masaza Cup one of the crucial vibrant and culturally vital soccer competitions within the nation.

Buweekula, who lifted the 2025 Masaza Cup title, are drawn within the Bulange Group alongside Kyaddondo, Buddu, Busujju, Buluuli and Buvuma. The match is sponsored by Airtel Uganda, Plascon Uganda, Centenary Financial institution, UNAIDS and Pilsner King.

The Buganda Masaza Cup continues to function a significant platform for figuring out and growing soccer expertise, whereas strengthening neighborhood identification and cultural delight throughout the Kingdom.