Five-time Masaza Cup champions Gomba Lions took a significant step toward the 2026 Kansai Plascon-powered Masaza Cup final after defeating neighbors Butambala Sazza 2–0.
In the first leg of their semi-final match played at Kabulasoke PTC Playground on Sunday, Meddie Kasule was the star of the afternoon, scoring both goals in the first half to give Gomba a commanding advantage ahead of next weekend’s return leg in Butambala.
Gomba started the match with greater purpose, looking sharper and more determined than their visitors despite Butambala’s reputation for dominating possession during this year’s tournament.
The hosts were rewarded in the 12th minute when Alvin Kitiibwa won a penalty. Kasule, the tournament’s leading scorer with six goals, stepped up and calmly sent goalkeeper Waibi the wrong way to put Gomba ahead.
Kasule came close to doubling the advantage on two occasions, but his efforts went wide before he finally found the target again in the 30th minute with a superb header.
Gomba’s midfield duo of Osama Nkuuse and Arnold Sserunjogi played a key role in controlling the game, repeatedly intercepting Butambala’s attacks and limiting the visitors’ opportunities. The first half ended 2–0 in favor of the Lions.
Butambala returned from the break in search of a way back into the contest and created chances, but Gomba goalkeeper Bashir Ssenyonga stood firm.
Ssenyonga produced an important save to deny Butambala a goal before keeping out substitute Patrick Ssenkusu’s free-kick in the 84th minute.
Gomba also had opportunities to put the tie further beyond Butambala’s reach, with Kasule, Kitiibwa, and substitute Alfred Ssebunya all missing chances to add a third.
Butambala now face a steep challenge in the return leg. They must overturn the two-goal deficit in front of their home supporters next Saturday, where a 3–0 victory would see them through, while a 2–0 win would force the tie into a penalty shootout.
The second semi-final also produced a narrow result, with Kyaggwe edging Bugerere 1–0 courtesy of Ronnie Ziraba’s solitary goal.
The two finalists will battle for the 2026 Masaza Cup title at Muteesa II Stadium, Wankulukuku.
