Kyaka County secured their place in the final of the 2025 MTN Kabode Tooro Kingdom Masaza Cup after holding Mwenge South to a 1-1 draw in the return leg of their semifinal at Katoosa playground in Kyenjojo District on Sunday.
The result saw Kyaka progress 4-1 on aggregate, having built a commanding advantage with a 3-0 first-leg victory at Humura playground in Kyegegwa District last weekend. Goals from Tumusiime Fred and Jonathan Moses Kisaku, alongside a brace from Julius Tumusiime, had done the damage in the opener, setting up a comfortable cushion for the visitors.
Mwenge South, roared on by their home fans, started brightly and took the lead in the 23rd minute through Marvin Onyango’s fine strike. But Kyaka, the 2022 champions, showed their resilience and hit back in the second half when Dennis Kakooza leveled matters in the 50th minute to kill off any hopes of a comeback.
Speaking after the match, Kyaka forward Julius Tumusiime, who netted twice in the first leg, expressed confidence in his side’s chances of reclaiming the title. “We played a good game, created chances and utilized them. We needed that draw away to qualify for our first finals in four appearances. We are confident we can win the trophy this season,” he said.
The qualification marks another milestone for Kyaka, who become the first team to reach the Masaza Cup final three times since the tournament’s inception in 2022. Their record is impressive: winners in their debut year against Bunyangabu, runners-up in 2023 after losing to Mwenge South, and now back for a third shot at glory.
Awaiting them in the grand finale is Fort Portal, who saw off Burahya in the other semifinal. The clash will take place on Sunday, September 7, at Buhinga Stadium in Fort Portal City, with both football and netball finals scheduled on the day. His Majesty King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru is expected to preside over proceedings.
Michael Wandera, the Tooro Kingdom Sports Minister, hailed the tournament’s success and praised all participating teams. “We are set for the finals on Sunday in Fort Portal. Both the football and netball finals will be played at Buhinga Stadium,” Wandera confirmed.
The champions will pocket UGX 12 million in prize money alongside the coveted trophy, courtesy of MTN. The third-place playoff will see Mwenge South take on Burahya.
For Kyaka, it’s another chance to etch their name deeper into Masaza Cup history, while Fort Portal will be desperate to make amends for their narrow defeat in last year’s final.
