Defending champions Buweekula were frustrated by a resilient Kyaddondo side as the 2026 Airtel Masaza Cup kicked off with a goalless draw at the National Teachers College (NTC) Grounds in Mubende on Saturday.
In front of a colourful and enthusiastic crowd, both teams battled fiercely in the opening fixture of Buganda’s premier football competition but failed to find the breakthrough despite creating several promising opportunities.
Buweekula, seeking to begin their title defence with maximum points, enjoyed long spells of possession and territorial dominance. However, a disciplined Kyaddondo defence stood firm to deny the reigning champions a winning start.
The two sides traded attacks throughout the match, but clear-cut scoring chances were few and far between. As the contest wore on, both teams resorted to long-range efforts and set pieces in search of a decisive goal, but neither goalkeeper was seriously tested.
Despite the lack of goals, the match offered an early indication of the competitiveness expected in this year’s tournament, with both teams showing tactical discipline and determination.
Kyaddondo midfielder Trevor Kalule emerged as the standout performer and was named Man of the Match after an impressive display in the centre of the park. His energy, composure and work rate proved vital in helping his side secure a valuable point against the defending champions.
Speaking after the match, Airtel Uganda Sales Director Ali Balunywa praised the quality of football displayed by both teams.
“I have loved the opener today because of the high standards of play and the talent on display. Whereas neither team managed to score, you could clearly see the quality, tactical discipline and determination from both sides. At this stage of the tournament, every point matters and neither team wanted to lose ground,” Balunywa said.
He reaffirmed Airtel Uganda’s commitment to supporting grassroots football and talent development across Buganda.
“As Airtel, we are once again proud to be part of a tournament that brings people together and provides a platform for talent development. The Airtel Masaza Cup continues to promote unity, togetherness and community engagement, values that are important to us as a brand,” he added.
The Katikkiro of Buganda, Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga, who officiated at the opening match, applauded both teams for producing an entertaining contest and predicted a highly competitive tournament.
“We are grateful to Airtel Uganda for consistently supporting our vision. The Airtel Masaza Cup is more than a football tournament; it is a platform that promotes unity, identity and discipline among our people. Through such partnerships, we continue to preserve our heritage while strengthening communities across the kingdom,” Mayiga said.
Beyond football, the 2026 edition is being played under the theme: “Men Must Take the Lead in the Fight Against HIV/AIDS to Save the Girl Child.” Organisers say the campaign is intended to encourage men to play a more active role in protecting young girls and combating the spread of HIV/AIDS.
The tournament resumes next weekend, with Ssese hosting Bulemeezi on Saturday, June 20. On Sunday, Busiro will face Gomba while Buddu take on Buluuli.
