Why was Denis Onyango recalled to Uganda Cranes? Paul Put explains

Uganda Cranes head coach Joseph Paul Put recalled veteran goalkeeper Denis Onyango to his squad ahead of the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Mozambique and Somalia.

Onyango, who retired from international football in 2021, is one of four goalkeepers called up by the Belgian tactician.

Put explained that the decision came after the long-term injury of Isima Watenga left the team struggling for reliable options between the posts.

“We have been struggling with goalkeeping options after Watenga’s injury, so we decided to call Onyango. He also assisted the CHAN team, and that’s when I got to know him better. He is disciplined, mature, and experienced, and I believe he will play a key role in this important qualification campaign,” Put stated.

Before retiring, Denis Onyango earned 79 caps for Uganda and represented the Cranes at the 2017 and 2019 Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.

Meanwhile, the local-based players are set to begin training on August 31st as Uganda looks to strengthen its push in Group G, where they currently sit fourth with nine points from six matches.

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