Following their historic first Masaza Cup triumph, Ssaza Kyaggwe chief Ssekiboobo Vincent Matovu has pledged to do everything possible to ensure the county retains the title next season. Kyaggwe clinched the trophy with a 1-0 victory over record champions Gomba in the final on October 31 at Muteesa II Stadium, Wankulukuku, thanks to a 75th-minute goal from George Kato.
Matovu: Kyaggwe Will Be Different
Matovu acknowledged the difficulty of defending the trophy, noting that previous champions have struggled to retain it, but he remains confident that Kyaggwe will break the trend. "We have just started, and we are not going to stop," he declared. "I know that in previous seasons, defending champions have always struggled. I want to assure you that Kyaggwe is going to be different. Next season, we are going to return even stronger than we have been this season."
The chief's remarks come after Kyaggwe's maiden title, which saw them join the list of winners since the competition was revived in 2004. Gomba remains the most successful county with five titles, followed by Buddu, Bulemeezi, and Mawokota, who have three each. Ssingo has two titles, while Busiro, Buluuli, Kooki, and Buweekula have one apiece.
Plascon Pledges Increased Support
Tournament sponsors Plascon have also pledged to increase their financial support for the competition next season, citing growing visibility and increased consumption of their products. Daniel Kayongo, Plascon's head of marketing, attributed the tournament's strong following across the 18 participating counties (Masaza) to the positive impact on the company's brand visibility and product consumption.
"We support the Masaza Cup because it gives players a chance to do something their counties will remember forever," Kayongo said. "Take Kato, for example. He came off the bench and scored a historic goal for Kyaggwe. He gave thousands of supporters joy, and they will remember him forever." Besides sponsoring the tournament, Plascon also sponsors Ssaza Buddu.
The well-attended final was graced by Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, Princess Katrina Ssangalyambogo, and several other dignitaries from the Buganda Kingdom and the Central Government. The Masaza Cup continues to be a unifying force in the region, showcasing talent and fostering community pride.
As Kyaggwe basks in their victory, the focus now shifts to next season, with the county determined to prove that their triumph was no fluke. With Plascon's increased support, the tournament is poised for even greater success, promising more thrilling moments and unforgettable performances.
