Burahya County took a significant step towards their first-ever final in the Tooro Kingdom MTN Amasaza Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Ntoroko County in the semifinals on Sunday. The lone goal, struck by Kambale Aldrine in the 17th minute, secured a crucial away win for Burahya at the packed Karugutu Town Council playground in Ntoroko District.
In a game marked by intense rivalry, Kambale's clinical finish was enough to separate the two sides. Speaking after the match, the goal scorer credited the team’s unity and determination for their success. “We played as a team and won as a team, and that has been our spirit since we started this tournament. I promise our fans many good things are coming,” Kambale said, reflecting the confidence within the Burahya camp as they look ahead to the return leg.
Despite the loss, Ntoroko County remains optimistic about their chances of overturning the deficit in the second leg. Julius Kusiima, a Ntoroko official, expressed confidence in his team’s ability to bounce back. “It’s true we lost, but we created lots of chances and made one mistake which cost us the entire game. We have played at Kyembogo before, and I am very confident we shall win the match,” Kusiima said, signaling that the contest is far from over.
The Tooro Kingdom MTN Amasaza Cup, now in its third edition, is more than just a football tournament. It is a key part of King Oyo’s five-year plan to combat HIV/AIDS across the kingdom. The event has not only fostered a competitive spirit but has also helped identify local talent and promote health awareness.
Tooro Kingdom’s Sports Minister, Wandera Michael, emphasized the importance of the tournament in the broader fight against HIV/AIDS, while also highlighting the crucial second-leg fixtures for both Fort Portal County and Burahya County. “Fort Portal and Burahya need wins in their second leg to qualify for the finals,” he said.
Aggrey Byaruhanga, the Regional MTN Marketing Officer, praised the tournament’s role in raising awareness about HIV/AIDS. “These tournaments are aimed at creating awareness, encouraging people to test for HIV, and use condoms in the fight against HIV, which is becoming another problem in Fort Portal, according to the Uganda AIDS Commission survey,” Byaruhanga stated.
As the teams prepare for the return legs, the stakes couldn’t be higher. With Burahya needing just a draw to reach the final and Ntoroko looking to make amends on familiar territory, the next encounter promises to be a thrilling conclusion to this semifinal showdown.
