Denis Onyango relishes Uganda return ahead of World Cup Qualifiers

Former Uganda Cranes captain Denis Onyango has expressed his delight after being recalled from retirement to rejoin the national team for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers.

The 40-year-old, who currently plies his trade with South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns, retired from international duty in 2021 after earning 79 caps since his debut in 2005. His surprise return comes as Uganda gears up to host Mozambique on Friday, September 5, before facing Somalia on September 8 at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.

Onyango, who joined the Cranes camp on Monday, wasted no time in taking part in the team’s opening training session. He will now compete for a starting spot with fellow goalkeepers Salim Jamal, Nafian Alionzi, and Joel Mutakubwa.

“I’m happy to be back. This is round two for me,” Onyango said with a smile. “When the call-up came, I shared the news with my Sundowns teammates, and they were very excited because they knew I had retired. Some even wanted to see me back for probably the final time. It’s an incredible honour to return to the national team.”

Despite his vast experience, Onyango insists he is not guaranteed a place in the starting lineup. “There are no guarantees that I’ll start. The position is open, and whoever is ready and performs best will play. At the end of the day, we all want to see the national team win.”

Uganda currently sits fourth in Group G with nine points from six games, behind Algeria, Mozambique, and Botswana. The veteran shot-stopper believes Uganda’s chances of progressing will depend on blending experience with youth.

“Every team needs both senior players and young talent,” Onyango noted. “The young ones bring energy, while the senior players provide calmness in pressure moments. We must share ideas, work together, and fight for good results.”

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