The defending champions Buweekula began their Airtel Masaza Cup title defence on a frustrating note on Saturday, failing to turn home advantage into victory as they were held to a goalless draw by a resilient Kyaddondo side at the National Technical Centre grounds in Mubende.
Long before kick-off, the atmosphere suggested this would be more than just an opening fixture. Fans streamed into the venue hours early, drums echoed across the grounds, and anticipation built steadily as Buganda’s most celebrated football tournament returned for another season.
When the action finally got underway, both teams matched the occasion.
Buweekula, carrying the weight and expectation that comes with being defending champions, tried to impose themselves early. But Kyaddondo showed little interest in playing the role of visitors content with simply participating. They were organized, aggressive in midfield and looked dangerous whenever they pushed forward.
For all the energy and intensity, clear-cut chances remained hard-earned.
Kyaddondo came closest to breaking the deadlock. Twice, they were denied by the frame of the goal, moments that drew gasps from the crowd and left the Buweekula faithful briefly frozen in disbelief. They also forced several important interventions from the hosts as they searched for a breakthrough.
At the other end, Buweekula had their moments but repeatedly found a stubborn Kyaddondo backline unwilling to crack. Leading that resistance was captain Trevor Kalule, who read the game superbly, won crucial duels and marshalled his defence with authority throughout the afternoon.
Whenever Buweekula found space, goalkeeper Ashraf Bwabye was equal to the task. His handling was assured, his positioning sharp, and his saves timely as he preserved a clean sheet for his side.
By the final whistle, neither team had found the decisive touch, but the contest had delivered enough intensity and drama to justify the excitement that surrounded the tournament’s return.
Kalule’s commanding display earned him the Man of the Match accolade.
The match was officiated by referee Joseph Masembe.
Among the dignitaries in attendance was the Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga who officially launched the tournament on behalf of Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II.
“I’m here on the directives of the Kabaka who sent me to launch the Airtel Masaza Cup. I appreciate players and fans because the discipline has been superb. If there is all-round discipline, the standards of the tournament will be raised. I thank the hosts for the great job in making worthwhile arrangements for this game,” he said.
The Katikkiro also urged players, officials and supporters to maintain the same level of discipline throughout the competition.
Airtel Uganda, the tournament’s main sponsor, praised both the quality of football and the conduct displayed by supporters.
“We are proud and glad to be part of this year’s Airtel Masaza Cup. We’ve enjoyed the official opening of the games today here in Mubende, where Buweekula was taking on Kyaddondo. The game was very interesting. The standard and quality is very good,” said Airtel Uganda Director of Sales and Distribution, Ali Balunywa.
“We hope that there will be more goals in the other games that will happen across the 18 counties in Buganda. We thank the fans who have come in large numbers and encourage them to continue attending matches. The discipline they have shown is something we truly appreciate,” he added.
Representing Centenary Bank, Francis Kiggundu applauded the turnout and encouraged supporters to embrace financial discipline alongside their passion for football.
This year’s competition features 18 counties divided into three groups.
Bulange Group comprises Buweekula, Kyaddondo, Buvuma, Buddu, Busujju and Buluuli.
Muganzirwaza Group has Ssingo, Mawogola, Butambala, Kabula, Kooki and Bugerere.
Masengere Group consists of Mawokota, Kyaggwe, Busiro, Bulemeezi, Gomba and Ssese.
Traditionally, the defending champions host the opening match of the tournament, which is why Buweekula, winners of the 2025 title, welcomed Kyaddondo to Mubende for this year’s curtain-raiser.
The result leaves both sides with a point apiece, but it is Kyaddondo who may feel they let victory slip away.
