The highly anticipated 2025 Masaza Cup football tournament, a cornerstone of the Buganda Kingdom’s cultural and sporting calendar, is set to explode into action this Saturday. Defending champions Buddu will host five-time winners Gomba in a blockbuster opening match at Kitovu Sports Arena in Masaka City, kicking off at 3 p.m.
Eighteen teams across the Buganda Kingdom are in the final stages of their preparations, with training camps buzzing with activity as players and coaches fine-tune their strategies for the prestigious grassroots competition.
The tournament’s significance was further highlighted this week at its official launch at Bulange Mengo, where paint manufacturer Plascon reaffirmed its co-sponsorship for the third consecutive year. Daniel Kayongo, Plascon Brand Manager, emphasized the company’s commitment to nurturing young talent and supporting Buganda culture. “At Plascon, we believe in a Uganda where businesses can focus on what they do best — serving customers, creating jobs and innovating,” Kayongo stated, recognizing the Masaza Cup’s vital role in identifying future stars for the Uganda Premier League and the national team, the Uganda Cranes, while also fostering community spirit and values like discipline and teamwork.
Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga, the Katikkiro of Buganda (Prime Minister of the Kingdom), extended his gratitude to Plascon, hailing the tournament as a crucial instrument for unity, youth empowerment, and the celebration of shared heritage. “It shows what we can achieve when we work together. We urge all subjects of the Kingdom to come out, support their counties peacefully, and celebrate the rich culture that binds us together,” Mayiga urged.
Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga, the Katikkiro of Buganda (Prime Minister of the Kingdom)
Beyond the opening day spectacle, the 2025 Masaza Cup promises to be a thrilling season, marked by significant coaching changes and strategic retentions across the competing teams, all vying for the coveted title.
Defending champions Buddu FC have made a bold move, recruiting Eric Kisuze, fresh off guiding Uganda Martyrs University (UMU) Nkozi to their third Pepsi University Football League title. Buddu hopes Kisuze’s proven winning experience will be the key to retaining the trophy.
However, record winners Gomba FC, boasting five Masaza Cup triumphs (2004, 2009, 2014, 2017, 2020), have counter-strategised by appointing Simon Ddungu, the very tactician who led Buddu to their 2024 triumph. This managerial swap adds an intriguing layer of rivalry to Saturday’s opening clash.
Elsewhere, Mawokota, aiming for a third Masaza Cup title, has secured David Mutono Katono from Kyaggwe, the mastermind behind Kyaggwe’s first finals appearance since 2004. Asaph Mwebaze, formerly with Mbale Heroes, has taken over at Mawogola, a side still in pursuit of its maiden Masaza title.
Continuity is the name of the game for some, with Buweekula FC retaining its trusted setup, led by head coach Felix Ssekabuuza and technical director Ibrahim Kirya. Kyaddondo FC has also kept faith in Meddie Nyanzi, who also coaches Bugema University.
Other teams that have finalised their coaching staff include:
The 2025 Masaza Cup is more than just a football tournament; it’s a vibrant display of Buganda’s rich cultural heritage and a crucial breeding ground for Ugandan football talent. With the stage set for an exhilarating season, fans are urged to turn out in full force, support their counties peacefully, and partake in the festivities that bind the Kingdom together. All eyes will be on Kitovu Sports Arena this Saturday as Buddu and Gomba ignite what promises to be a memorable tournament.
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