In a spectacular display of skill and determination, Bugabula and Butembe emerged victorious in the MTN Busoga Masaza Cup quarterfinals, setting the stage for an electrifying semi-final showdown. The Saturday fixtures delivered intense action, with both football powerhouses securing their spots in this year’s semi-finals.
Bugabula Edges Defending Champs in Penalty Shootout Drama
Bugabula chiefdom pulled off a stunning upset as they eliminated defending champions Bukooli Namayingo in a nerve-wracking penalty shootout. The match ended in a scoreless draw after 90 minutes, with both defenses standing firm against their opponents’ attacks.
In the dramatic penalty shootout, Bugabula showcased their composure, converting all four spot-kicks through Ssozi Ayasi, Budala Manyete, Owen Mawejje, and Rashid Mwanje. Despite Bukooli Namayingo’s efforts, including successful penalties from captain Levis Barasa Okello and Derrick Mangeni, their dreams of a title defense were dashed as Fahad Kyeyune and Mikel Kiiza missed their chances, resulting in a 4-2 defeat.
Bugabula’s head coach, Ashraf Lukoza, expressed his excitement and gratitude to the fans, declaring his team’s readiness to contend for the title. Lukoza remarked, “We have become stronger and a better team. Now that we have eliminated the reigning champions, this group is just capable enough to challenge for the title.”
Bukooli Namayingo’s coach, George Ivan Wamalwa, graciously acknowledged his team’s defeat, stating, “Our opponents were equal to our challenge; we were unlucky today. We wish them well.”
Butembe Triumphs Over Bugweri in Hard-Fought Clash
In another pulsating quarterfinal encounter, Butembe secured a 2-1 victory over Bugweri chiefdom. The 2017 champions displayed their prowess early in the match, with forward Tonny Tulituka giving them a 1-0 lead after 15 minutes. Bugweri had limited chances in the first half, but Butembe’s resolute defense, featuring Mikel Abasa, Maurice Isabirye, Isa Balaba, and Davis Asante, held firm.
The turning point came in the 75th minute when second-half substitute Kenneth Oboya extended Butembe’s lead to 2-0. Despite Bugweri’s late response with a goal from William Okello in injury time, Butembe held on for a hard-fought 2-1 victory.
Butembe’s head coach, Afan Ikoba, commended his players for sticking to the game plan, saying, “My players really stuck to my game plan of reducing our opponents to a few chances.” He acknowledged that the team is a work in progress and refrained from declaring full readiness for the title.
Bugweri’s coach, Kenneth Kaluuba, conceded defeat, citing a challenging day in the office and expressing optimism for the next year. “It was a bad day in the office today due to bad luck, but we shall come back stronger next year,” said Kaluuba.
The MTN Busoga Masaza Cup continues to deliver thrilling moments, and the upcoming semi-finals promise even more excitement as Bugabula and Butembe eye the coveted championship.
