By Namutebi Sumayiya

The third match day of the MTN Busoga Masaza Cup 2024 delivered an intense round of football action across various venues, with a mix of victories, draws, and dramatic moments that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Busiki 2-1 Budiope: Gayanda Brace Restores Busiki’s Winning Ways
After a tough 2-0 loss in their opening fixture against Bugweri, MTN Busoga Masaza Cup holders Busiki Chiefdom bounced back with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Budiope at Namutumba Playground. The win was crucial for Busiki’s hopes of advancing to the quarter-finals, and it came after a scoreless first half marred by sloppy play under heavy rain.
The second half saw a more lively performance from both sides, with end-to-end action that culminated in Isa Gayanda’s left-footed volley in the 60th minute. The goal came after Budiope goalkeeper Musa Matende mishandled a teasing cross from Busiki’s left-back Araabu Tibita.
Budiope responded 15 minutes later with a stunning 25-yard equalizer from winger Hakim Gadimba. However, the match took a contentious turn in the 82nd minute when Budiope fans stormed the pitch, protesting the referee’s decision to cancel out Umaru Balusilye’s potential go-ahead goal. Security intervened, and after play resumed, Gayanda struck again in the 88th minute, securing the win for Busiki and sending the home crowd into jubilation.
Busiki’s coach, Dennis Watuke, praised the fans for their support and promised an even better performance in the return fixture against Budiope. “I am happy for our fans who came in large numbers against a team that gave us a hard time today. But I promise to put up a much better performance when we visit Budiope as we aim to qualify for the quarter-finals,” Watuke said.
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