A second half goal was enough for defending champions, Buddu to launch their title defence on a high as the Airtel Buganda Masaza Cup returned for the 21st edition.
In an opener held in Buddu’s own backyard at Kitovu Sports Arena, visitors, Gomba, went neck to neck with their hosts in a well attended match a, also watched by Buganda Katikkiro, Charles Peter Mayiga .
The with a number of chances missed, the first stanza of the game ended in a stalemate .
The hosts however broke the deadlock, thanks to a Crispus Sseruwugge well curled ball in the top corner of the goal in the 83rd minute of a Godfrey Kidega assist.
Kidega capitalised on a defensive error by Gomba to set up Sseruwugge who calmly slotted the ball in the top corner of the goal past the hapless goalkeeper to settle matters at Kitovu and send fans into frenzy
Buddu maintained the lead to ensure they won the game one nil.
Buganda Katikkiro, Charles Peter Mayiga hailed the huge turnup but also the discipline exhibited by the supporters.
“Today, football has won because the turn-up has been very impressive. There was no crowd violence. People were happy. That’s what we want to see. That’s how we shall nurture talent. That’s how we shall develop football. If football wins, everyone will be happy,”Mayiga said.
He also urged players to improve finishing quality, pointing out that both teams lacked sharpness in front of goal during the first half.
Airtel Uganda’s Sales and Distribution Director, Ali Balunywa also hailed the quality of the game.
“The quality of the game has significantly improved. Buddu and Gomba demonstrated very good skill, and we are grateful to the fans,” Balunywa said.
He also announced the Masaza bundles that he said will enable fans stay online and stream the games on social media.
“These bundles are available across the country, not just in Buganda.”
The Airtel sponsored Buganda Masaza Cup is an annual football tournament for the 18 Buganda Kingdom counties aimed at nurturing football talents and strengthening community ties.
