Denis Onyango’s second return to the Uganda Cranes might have come to an end, following the team’s exit from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Tuesday after a 3-1 loss to Nigeria.
The 40-year-old goalkeeper, who came out of retirement in August this year, was coy on what his future holds but indicated he doesn’t see himself on the team in the near future.
The gangly shot stopper featured in the game against Tanzania and also played 45 minutes against Nigeria before going off injured. He was replaced by Salim Jamal Magoola, who was later sent off.
After the game, Onyango told Kawowo Sports, he doesn’t see himself on the team in the near future, especially with Uganda alongside Kenya and Tanzania hosting the next AFCON in 2027.
“2027 is very far for me,” he said with a faint smile before adding, “ maybe as a technical member but in terms of playing, I don’t see myself making it to 2027.”
Asked if the country should expect an announcement in regard to retirement soon, Onyango was quick to node in affirmation.
“Yeah, expect something.” He said before moving away with a smile.
On what the tournament was like for Uganda, Onyango believes it was a good experience for the team, where the majority of the players were featuring at this level for the first time.
“Very good experience for the boys, after a couple of years without being at the tournament, I think we would have gotten results in the previous games but it was not meant to be. I think we lacked something in this tournament, and I hope we will use it in the next one at home because it’s very important for us to improve.”
On lessons learnt, Onyango indicates the team will know that it is important to get points early enough.
“For the young ones and the experienced players who were playing at this level for the first time, they will know that you need to get maximum points early enough, you don’t wait for the last game.”
The team is expected to embark on the journey back to Kampala on Wednesday afternoon.
Uganda finished bottom in Group C on one point behind Tanzania (2 points), Tunisia (4 points) and Nigeria (9 points), who all qualified to the round of 16.
Thanks for remembering we come as one under CECAFA.
He should create space for young talent. I honestly wonder why the system struggles to learn from past lessons. While I fully acknowledge and appreciate the great service he has given us over the years, the question remains—when will we intentionally groom and trust new talent?
I personally did not see any significant difference he brought this time, and continuing to block emerging players comes across as selfish, especially from someone of Denis Onyango’s stature.
He should create space for young talent. I honestly wonder why the system struggles to learn from past lessons. While I fully acknowledge and appreciate the great service he has given us over the years, the question remains—when will we intentionally groom and trust new talent?
I personally did not see any significant difference he brought this time, and continuing to block emerging players comes across as selfish, especially from someone of Denis Onyango’s stature.