David GOMBE
The curtains came down on another thrilling edition of the Masaza Cup on Sunday at the newly refurbished Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo, as Buweekula were crowned champions for the first time in the tournament’s 21-year history. In a tightly contested final, Buweekula edged Ssingo 1–0, thanks to a brilliant solo effort from Alex Talemwa in the 16th minute, a moment that will be remembered in the tournament’s history. Despite Ssingo’s resilience and dominance in possession, Buweekula’s tactical discipline, pressing intensity, and composure under pressure sealed a historic victory for the Mubende-based side.
Head coach Felix Ssekabuuza, supported by assistants Ibrahim Kirya and Ssozi Nnono, masterminded the win by blending experience, structure, and belief. “I’ve been in seven finals. We knew what corrections were needed after last year’s semifinal exit,” Ssekabuuza said after the final whistle, visibly emotional as he celebrated with his players on the rain-soaked turf. The win ended years of near misses for Buweekula and confirmed them as kings of Buganda football for the first time since the tournament began in 2004. Around the pitch, Ssingo players sat dejected as their hopes for a third Masaza Cup title faded in the wet Nakivubo evening. At the same time, Buweekula’s supporters sang and danced in jubilation, saying the spirits of Nakayima had finally smiled upon them.
The 2025 Masaza Cup once again proved to be a celebration of talent, culture, and community spirit, reinforcing the sense of belonging and cultural pride among the fans. From the stands to the pitch, fans were treated to a festival of football that reaffirmed the tournament’s standing as Buganda’s most prestigious sporting event. Buweekula’s road to the final was not without controversy; their semifinal win over Kyaggwe was fiercely contested, but their attacking prowess was undeniable. With 20 goals scored throughout the campaign, the trio of Talemwa, Jimmy Kalema, and Shafiq Sonko formed the tournament’s most feared frontline. Kalema, in particular, was sensational, finishing as both MVP and top scorer with seven goals. On the opposite end, Ssingo’s defensive record had been the best in the competition, conceding only four goals before the final. Still, even that was not enough to stop Buweekula’s momentum.
In the individual awards, Buweekula’s dominance was further underlined as Jimmy Kalema was named Most Valuable Player and Top Scorer with seven goals, while his teammate Pariyo Ogubezo took home the Best Defender award. Ssingo’s shot-stopper, Joel Byaruhanga, despite the loss, was recognised as the Best Goalkeeper of the tournament, highlighting the individual achievements and efforts of the players. In the third-place playoff, Kyaggwe defeated Bugerere 1–0 to secure a podium finish.
Since its inception in 2004, the Masaza Cup has seen 12 counties lift the title, demonstrating the tournament’s competitive balance and enduring legacy. Over the years, Buganda’s most successful teams have included Gomba, Buddu, Ssingo, and Bulemeezi, and now Buweekula joins that elite list of champions. The recent champions’ roll of honour reads: 2025 – Buweekula, 2024 – Buddu, 2023 – Bulemeezi, 2022 – Busiro, 2021 -Buddu, 2020 – Gomba, 2019 – Bulemeezi, 2018 –Ssingo, 2017 – Gomba, 2016 – Buddu, 2015 – Ssingo, 2014 – Gomba, 2013 – Mawokota, 2012 – Bulemeezi, 2011 – Buluuli, 2009 – Gomba, 2008 – Kyadondo, 2007 – Mawokota, 2006 – Kooki, 2005 – Mawokota, and 2004 – Gomba.
As one of the proud sponsors of the 2025 Masaza Cup, Plascon reaffirmed its deep-rooted commitment to community development, youth empowerment, and cultural preservation through sport. Speaking after the final, Plascon Brand Manager, Daniel Kayongo, congratulated the winners and paid tribute to all teams and supporters who made this year’s edition a success. “We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Buweekula on their historic victory and to all the individual award winners who made this tournament unforgettable. The Masaza Cup is more than just football; it’s about identity, unity, and opportunity. As Plascon, we are proud to stand alongside Buganda Kingdom in supporting this beautiful tradition,” he said. Kayongo also expressed gratitude to His Majesty the Kabaka of Buganda for gracing the final and personally presenting the trophy to the champions, calling it “a moment that inspires young athletes to dream bigger.”
Despite a spirited campaign that fell short of the ultimate prize, Team Buddu, one of the most successful sides in Masaza Cup history, remains a key partner in Plascon’s ongoing support for community football. “Our partnership with Team Buddu and the entire Masaza cup tournament continues. We believe in long-term development and are committed to ensuring that Buddu and all young talent in Buganda continue to shine. Plascon will keep colouring communities with hope, on and off the pitch,” Kayongo added.
Plascon is Uganda’s leading paint brand and a proud supporter of sports, culture, and community initiatives across the country. Through sponsorships like the Masaza Cup, Plascon continues to invest in platforms that bring people together and inspire the next generation of leaders and champions.
