Kyaggwe have etched their names into Buganda football history after clinching their maiden Airtel Masaza Cup title with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over record champions Gomba at Muteesa II Stadium, Wankulukuku, on Saturday, October 31, 2026.
In a final that drew hundreds of thousands of spectators and was graced by Kabaka of Buganda Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, Kyaggwe demonstrated the resilience and discipline required to overcome one of the competition’s most successful sides.
The decisive moment arrived in the final quarter of the contest when substitute George Isingoma Kato delivered the breakthrough, beating Gomba goalkeeper at the near post to send the Kyaggwe faithful into celebration.
Having taken the lead, Kyaggwe, under the guidance of head coach Ronald Ssali, held firm against Gomba’s attempts to force their way back into the contest, protecting their advantage until the final whistle.
The triumph represents a landmark achievement for Kyaggwe in a competition revived in 2004, ending their pursuit of a maiden crown and adding a new name to the list of champions.
For Gomba, the defeat was a painful setback in their quest to extend their remarkable record.
The finalists, who were appearing in their 10th final, had to settle for second place despite their pedigree in the tournament.
Kyaggwe were rewarded with Shs25 million, gold medals and the championship trophy, while Gomba received Shs22 million for finishing as runners-up.
Earlier in the day, Butambala secured third place with a narrow 1-0 victory over Bugerere in the bronze-medal playoff.
Dathan Mubiru scored the decisive goal in the 82nd minute, capping a spirited campaign that earned Butambala two individual team honours alongside their place on the podium.
Butambala were named the tournament’s most improved team and also received the Fair Play Award, recognition of their progress and conduct throughout the championship.
Meanwhile, Gomba forward Meddie Kasule finished as the tournament’s leading scorer with six goals, while Godfrey Arijole of Kyaggwe was named Most Valuable Player following his influential contribution to the champions’ historic campaign.
Mawogola’s Herbert Masaba claimed the Best Goalkeeper accolade, while Bugerere’s Owek. Samuel Ssemugoma was recognised as the Ssaza chief who attended the highest number of matches.
Beyond the results and individual honours, the overwhelming turnout at Wankulukuku underlined the enduring appeal of the Masaza Cup and its significance within Buganda’s sporting and cultural landscape.
The massive attendance was arguably among the biggest witnessed at the stadium in recent times, reinforcing the tournament’s ability to mobilise supporters and create a compelling platform for corporate partnerships.
Airtel Uganda, the competition’s platinum sponsor, continues to lead a portfolio of partners that includes Centenary Bank, Pilsner King, CBS Radio, BBS Telefaina and Majestic Brands, among others.
2026 Airtel Masaza Cup Individual Accolades
Champions: Kyaggwe
Runners-up: Gomba
Third place: Butambala
Most Valuable Player (MVP): Godfrey Arijole (Kyaggwe)
Top Scorer: Meddie Kasule (Gomba) — 6 goals
Best Goalkeeper: Herbert Masaba (Mawogola)
Fair Play Award: Butambala
Most Improved Team: Butambala
Ssaza Chief Who Attended the Most Matches: Owek. Samuel Ssemugoma (Bugerere)
