Uganda Cranes legend Denis Onyango has described his return to the national team as an emotional second chance, stressing the need to balance experience and youthful energy ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers.
The 39 year old goalkeeper, who retired from international football in 2021, joined the Cranes’ first training session at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, as the team prepares to face Mozambique on Friday and Somalia next Monday.
“First of all, I’m happy to be back. Round two,” Onyango said with a smile after training. “It was good news for me, and even my club teammates were excited. Some hoped I’d return one more time and here I am.”
Onyango acknowledged mixed reactions to his comeback, with some believing his presence boosts Uganda’s chances, while others argue it limits opportunities for younger goalkeepers like Jamal Salim, Joel Mutakubwa, and Nafian Alionzi. But he insists no one is guaranteed a starting spot.
“The position is up for grabs,” Onyango said. “Whoever is ready and gives their best will play. All we want is for Uganda to win.”
He praised the squad’s youthful energy but reminded fans that experience remains key in big games.
“The game needs a lot of experience, but it also needs plenty of running, that’s where the young boys come in,” Onyango noted.
“We blend ideas, pick the best ones, and aim for results. You can’t win with only youngsters, and you can’t win with only seniors either.”
Uganda sits fourth in Group G with nine points, six behind leaders Algeria, making the upcoming fixtures crucial for their qualification hopes.
“We must stay positive, support each other, and fight for the same goal,” Onyango said. “The results are what matter most.”
The Cranes host Mozambique at Namboole on Friday before traveling to face Somalia on Monday, matches that could shape Uganda’s road to the 2026 World Cup.
