Buddu FC secured their place in the 2024 Masaza Cup final thanks to a crucial goal from Hadson Mbalire in their semi-final clash against Kyadondo.
Having lost 3-1 at home in the first round, Kyadondo found themselves in lead at Kitovu Arena through Ismail Keita Ndifuna’s goal, just 10 minutes into the game, giving the visitors hope for a comeback.
Mbalire, who joined Buddu from Kooki, made a significant impact after coming on as a second half substitute for Hamza Kalibwami.
His goal in the 85th minute, came from team work after contributions from Malida Kuteesa, Joseph Kayondo and Mike Weraga, securing a 1-1 draw in the second leg and a 4-2 aggregate victory.
This is Buddu’s sixth Masaza Cup final appearance, having previously reached the stage in 2015, 2016, 2018, 2020, 2021, and 2022. Unfortunately, they have only won the title twice, losing four times to Ssingo (2015, 2018), Gomba (2020), and Busiro (2022).
Their opponents in the final will be Kyaggwe, who eliminated Buwekula in their semi-final after a goalless draw at at Mubende National teacher’s college. Kyaggwe won the first leg 2-1 at Mukono Bishops.
Kyaggwe has reached the final for the first time and will be aiming to make a statement on the national stage.
Their best performance prior to this has been a semifinal appearance in 2016 when they lost to Buddu and went on to lose the third place game to Busujju.
The 2024 Masaza Cup final will be held at Mandela National Stadium on November 2, 2024.
Courtesy Photos
