In a riveting display of football prowess, the MTN Busoga Masaza Cup quarterfinals
treated fans to an exhilarating weekend, showcasing the skill and determination of the
eight teams vying for a spot in the semi-finals. With Butembe and Bugabula securing
their places in the penultimate stage on Saturday, Monday's showdown witnessed more
intense action, leaving spectators on the edge of their seats.
Butembe and Bugabula Secure Semi-Final Spots
Saturday's clashes saw Butembe emerging victorious with a 2-1 win over Bugweri, while
Bugabula secured their place in the semi-finals with a nerve-wracking penalty shootout,
triumphing 4-2 over Bukooli Namayingo after a goalless draw in regular time.
Kigulu's Goalkeeping Heroics in a Stalemate
The quarterfinal action continued on Monday, and the lunchtime kickoff witnessed a
tactical battle between two-time champions Kigulu and tournament underdogs Buzaaya.
In a highly entertaining goalless draw, both teams squandered several goal-scoring
opportunities, with Buzaaya missing two clear chances in the early first 30 minutes.
Kigulu's goalkeeper, John Collins Wesonga, emerged as the hero during the penalty
shootout, saving three penalties and securing a 3-2 win over Buzaaya.
Kigulu's head coach, Siraj Bogere, reflected on the match, stating, "We were spot on
today despite both teams playing a defensive approach. Our luck came in the second
half when we got a set piece we utilized to win the game."
Busiki Advances with Goalkeeping Drama
The drama continued in the last quarterfinal fixture, as Busiki faced Bunha. In a tightly
contested match, Busiki secured a 1-0 victory, thanks to a 65th-minute goalkeeping
error by Bunha's Lazarus Obulejo, who failed to deal with Alimansi Bidondole's long-
range free kick. Despite the setback, Bunha's coach, Ronald Lukungu, remained
optimistic, saying, "It's a big setback to lose in that fashion, but we shall come back
stronger next year."
Semi-Final Showdowns Decided
The semi-finals, scheduled for December 15 at Bugembe Stadium, promise to deliver
more excitement. Butembe will face Kigulu in the lunchtime kickoff at 12 noon, while
Busiki takes on Bugabula at 3 pm. The winners will earn the right to battle for the MTN
Busoga Masaza Cup in the final on December 30 at Kakindu Stadium.
As the tournament unfolds, contrasting fortunes for goalkeepers have added an extra
layer of intrigue to the Busoga Masaza Cup, emphasizing the fine margins that can
determine success or heartbreak on the football pitch. The thrilling action continues, and
fans can expect more captivating moments as the quest for glory reaches its climax.