Uganda Cranes’ legendary goalkeeper Denis Onyango has made a surprise return to international football after being summoned to the national team squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Somalia and Mozambique.
Onyango, widely regarded as one of Africa’s finest goalkeepers of his generation, retired from international duty in April 2021 after more than 16 years with the Cranes.
His decision came shortly after Uganda failed to qualify for the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, with Onyango citing the need to give way to younger players.
The Mamelodi Sundowns shot-stopper has been a pivotal figure in Uganda’s football history, having captained the Cranes to the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon—their first appearance in 39 years—and earning recognition as Africa’s Best-Based Player at the CAF Awards the same year.
Onyango’s return is expected to inject experience and leadership into a youthful Uganda squad as they prepare for the crucial World Cup qualification fixtures.
