Buyende, Uganda: Budiope FC has unveiled its final preparations ahead of the 2025 MTN Busoga Masaza Cup opener this Saturday, July 12, where they will host rivals Bukono at Irundu Primary School playground in Buyende District.
The Buyende-based side, which reached the quarterfinals in last year’s edition, has retained the bulk of its Executive Committee and technical team in a bold strategy built around continuity and homegrown talent.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday, July 09, Budiope FC Media Officer Baz Waiswa confirmed that the club has opted for minimal changes, maintaining the leadership structure that guided them to the tournament’s last eight in 2024.
“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, judging from what we achieved last season,” Waiswa said.
He added that the club’s vision extends beyond short-term results and is geared towards building a strong, sustainable system that leverages local resources.
“We have maintained the core team, including the technical team, because we are trying to build for the future using local talent. We believe we have amassed enough experience to perform better than last season.”
The 2025 tournament opener promises to be a spectacle, with the Kyabazinga of Busoga, His Royal Highness William Wilberforce Gabula Nadiope IV, expected to grace the ceremony alongside officials from MTN Uganda, the main sponsor of the Busoga Masaza Cup.
“We are grateful for the opportunity to host the opening match and feel honored to host our Kyabazinga,” Waiswa said. “It is a momentous occasion for Budiope FC and the people of Buyende.”
The club has also tied the event to a wider community cause, with the Kyabazinga championing the “Abasadha n’Empango” campaign, an anti-teen pregnancy advocacy initiative targeting men’s involvement in ending the vice.
“Preparations are underway to give Busoga a memorable sporting event. We take this opportunity to invite all football-loving people to come and celebrate with Isseiffe Kyabazinga,” Waiswa explained.
Budiope FC, coached by Kifuuwa Isa and Muzani Sefu as his assistant, is currently camped in Irundu Town Council. They will compete in the Mawembe group alongside Bukono, Bunhole Bunhamba, and Bugweri counties.
The team has already confirmed a 25-man squad dominated by local players, further underlining its commitment to nurturing regional football talent.
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