BUYENDE: Budiope FC is gearing up for a promising campaign in the 2025 MTN Busoga Masaza Cup as they prepare to host the tournament’s highly anticipated opening match on July 12 at Irundu Primary School, Buyende District.
The team, which reached the quarterfinals last season, is banking on continuity and a deep reliance on local talent as it seeks to advance further in this year’s competition. The club has retained much of its Executive Committee and technical team, signaling a strategic decision to build long-term success with familiar leadership and community-rooted players.
“We have taken the continuity path. Most of the guys have been with the team for a long time, and it is beginning to pay off,” said Baz Waiswa, Budiope FC’s Media Officer. “We believe we have amassed enough experience to perform better than last season.”
Budiope FC’s campaign opener will pit them against Bukono, the team that knocked them out of last year’s tournament at the quarterfinal stage. The fixture is more than just a rematch—it’s a moment of prestige, as the Kyabazinga of Busoga, His Royal Highness William Gabula Nadiope IV, and officials from MTN Uganda are expected to attend the launch.
Waiswa emphasized the significance of hosting the first game: “We are honored to host our Kyabazinga. It’s a momentous occasion not only for Budiope FC but also for the people of Budiope and Busoga at large.”
He further encouraged fans to turn up in large numbers, linking the sporting occasion to the broader cause of community transformation. “We invite all football-loving people to come and celebrate with Isseiffe Kyabazinga, who is championing the ‘Abasadha n’empango’ (Men are Pillars) campaign to fight teenage pregnancies in Busoga,” Waiswa noted.
Budiope FC is currently in residential training camp in Irundu Town Council and has assembled a 25-man squad, drawing heavily from local players. The club is confident that homegrown talent, supported by a stable leadership structure, will propel them to greater heights.
Placed in the competitive Mawembe group alongside Bunhole Bunhamba, Bukono, and Bugweri, Budiope FC faces an uphill challenge—but one they believe they are ready for.
With an eye on glory and the pride of Buyende on their shoulders, Budiope FC is set to light up the 8th edition of the MTN Busoga Masaza Cup.
