The 2024 Masaza Cup has been full of surprises from the opening week, with underdogs claiming victories both at home and on the road.
Week One Shocks
The tournament kicked off on June 22nd at Kosovo ground in Kasana Luwero, where visitors Bululi shocked the home crowd by taking all three points against defending champions Bulemeezi.
More surprises followed a week later. Butambala capitalized on home advantage to upset a strong Buddu side, while Busujju emerged victorious at Busiro, and Kyaggwe convincingly defeated record champions Gomba.
Kyaggwe’s celebrations were tragically cut short, however, as some of their fans were involved in a fatal road accident. A moment of silence will be observed in honour of the deceased Kyaggwe faithful.
Kyaggwe vs. Mawogola: A Clash of Winners
Both Kyaggwe and Mawogola head into their upcoming match on the back of wins. Mawogola edged out Kooki 1-0 in their opening game, while Kyaggwe defeated Gomba 2-0.
While Kyaggwe might appear to be the stronger team on current form, Mawogola boasts a more decorated history.
Ssingo vs. Gomba: Weekend Spotlight
This weekend’s biggest game is expected to be between Ssingo and Gomba, both of whom failed to win in the opening week.
Gomba, in particular, will be looking to bounce back after a disappointing 0-2 loss at Kabulasoke. Ssingo coach Simon Peter Mugerwa will be without key players, but they should still have enough quality to challenge Frank Mulindwa’s side.
Other Group Stage Clashes
In the same Muganzirwazza group, Buwekula faces a tricky trip to Kooki. While footballing ability might not be the biggest concern, playing in Kooki always presents a challenge for visiting teams.
Kooki lost their opening match 1-0 to Mawogola, while Buwekula were held to a goalless draw by Ssingo in Mubende. Despite the potential difficulties, Buwekula possesses a stronger team on paper and will be looking to gel quickly.
Bulange Group
The Bulange Group sees both big teams, Buddu and Bulemeezi, desperate for their first points after losing their opening matches 1-0 to Butambala and Bululi respectively.
Buddu will host Kyadondo, who won their opening game against Bugerere. Kyadondo will be looking to avoid a repeat of last year’s controversial quarter-final exit, where they felt they were robbed in the first leg against Buddu.
Bulemeezi travels to neighboring Bugerere, with both teams having lost their opening matches.
The other fixture in the group sees high-flying Butambala travel to Bululi, with both teams impressing in their opening victories over bigger teams.
Masengere Group Encounters
The Masengere group promises more drama, with the island derby between Ssese and Buvuma being the only Saturday match. The remaining eight fixtures will take place on Sunday, July 7th, 2024.
Mawokota will host Busiro at Buwama, while Busujju, fresh off their win against Busiro, will face a well-balanced Kabula side.
Courtesy Photos
