Mubende — Defending champions Buweekula were forced to settle for a goalless draw against a resilient Kyaddondo side as the 2026 Airtel Masaza Cup got underway at the National Teachers College (NTC) Grounds in Mubende on Saturday.
In front of a lively crowd that turned up for the tournament opener, both teams produced a competitive and hard-fought contest but failed to find the breakthrough despite several promising attacking moves.
Buweekula, seeking to launch their title defence with maximum points, enjoyed periods of possession and territorial advantage. However, Kyaddondo remained organised at the back and frustrated the reigning champions with a disciplined defensive performance.
The two sides exchanged attacks throughout the match, but clear-cut scoring opportunities were few and far between. As the game progressed, both teams increasingly relied on long-range efforts and set pieces in search of a winner.
Neither goalkeeper was seriously tested as the contest ended in a stalemate, with both sides taking a point from the opening fixture of the competition.
Despite the lack of goals, the encounter provided an early indication of the competitiveness expected in this year’s tournament, with neither side willing to concede ground in the opening round.
Kyaddondo midfielder Trevor Kalule emerged as the standout performer of the afternoon, producing an impressive display in midfield.
His composure on the ball, work rate and ability to dictate play earned him the Man of the Match award.
Kalule played a key role in helping Kyaddondo withstand Buweekula’s pressure while also initiating several attacking moves for his side.
Speaking after the match, Airtel Uganda Sales Director Ali Balunywa commended both teams for the quality of football displayed and noted the growing professionalism within the tournament.
“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,” Balunywa said.
“At this stage of the tournament, every point matters and neither team wanted to lose ground.”
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 said the fixture had provided an encouraging start to the competition.
He also praised Airtel Uganda for its continued support of the tournament, noting that the partnership has helped preserve Buganda’s cultural heritage while promoting community development through sport.
“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,” Mayiga said.
“Through such partnerships, we continue to preserve our heritage while strengthening communities across the kingdom.”
Beyond the action on the pitch, the 2026 Airtel Masaza Cup carries a strong social message under the theme: “Men Must Take the Lead in the Fight Against HIV/AIDS to Save the Girl Child.”
Organisers say the campaign seeks to encourage men across Buganda and beyond to play a more active role in protecting young girls and supporting efforts to combat the spread of HIV/AIDS.
The tournament resumes next weekend with Ssese hosting Bulemeezi on June 20.
Other fixtures scheduled for June 21 will see Busiro face Gomba, while Buddu take on Buluuli as teams continue their quest for this year’s Masaza Cup title.