Denis Onyango Returns as Cranes Seeks Victory Over Mozambique, Somalia in 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers

The Mamelodi Sundowns custodian Denis Onyango returns to Uganda’s squad, boosting Cranes’ hopes in 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Uganda national team head coach Paul Put has announced his 26-man squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Somalia and Mozambique, a list highlighted by the much-anticipated return of legendary goalkeeper Denis Onyango.

Onyango, who previously retired from international football, rejoins the Cranes at a crucial moment.

The 39-year-old shot-stopper, who famously led Uganda to two Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournaments in 2017 and 2019, was also crowned Africa’s best player based in the continent in 2016.

Onyango’s presence is expected to add invaluable leadership and experience, especially as Uganda eyes qualification for AFCON 2025 in Morocco this December.

The squad features a balanced mix of seasoned internationals and emerging local talent. Eleven players from the CHAN 2024 tournament have been included, alongside foreign-based stars plying their trade across different leagues.

Paul Put has selected three goalkeepers, ten defenders, five midfielders, and nine forwards, creating a versatile pool of options as Uganda prepares for two pivotal fixtures. Among the notable names is goalkeeper Salim Magoola, whose consistency and composure will strengthen the Cranes’ defensive setup.

The locally based contingent underscores FUFA’s renewed emphasis on nurturing homegrown players, while the foreign-based stars bring vital international exposure.

Uganda, currently fourth in Group G with nine points, will play both qualifiers at the Mandela National Stadium in Namboole.

The Cranes host Somalia on Friday, September 5, at 7:00 pm, followed by Mozambique on Monday, September 8, at the same venue and time. These matches are critical as Uganda aims to climb the standings and bolster its chances of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Ahead of the qualifiers, the squad will enter residential camp on Sunday, August 31, at FUFA Hotel in Kisaasi. Training sessions will focus on team cohesion and tactical adjustments to counter the threats posed by both Somalia and Mozambique.

Paul Put’s selections reflect a forward-looking approach, blending youthful energy with seasoned veterans.

However, the spotlight remains firmly on Denis Onyango’s emotional return, a development that has reignited optimism among fans. His experience, coupled with the hunger of emerging stars, could prove decisive in Uganda’s quest for World Cup glory.

Uganda Cranes squad

Goalkeepers:

Onyango Denis (Mamelodi Sundowns FC, South Africa), Magoola Salim Omar (Richards Bay FC, South Africa), Alionzi Nafian (Defence Forces FC, Ethiopia), Mutakubwa Joel (BUL FC, Uganda)

Defenders:

Bwomono Elvis (IBV Vestmannaeyjar, Iceland), Bockhorn Herbert (FC Magdeburg, Germany), Capradossi Elio (FC Universitatea Cluj, Romania), Torach Rogers (Vipers SC, Uganda), Sibbick Toby (Burton Albion FC, England), Mukundane Hilary (Vipers SC, Uganda), Obita Jordan (Hibernian FC, Scotland), Kayondo Aziz (FC Slovan Liberec, Czech Republic), Achayi Herbert (KCCA FC, Uganda), Kizito Gavin (KCCA FC, Uganda)

Midfielders:

Ssekiganda Ronald (APR FC, Rwanda), Semakula Kenneth (Al Arabi SC, Kuwait), Sserunjogi Joel (KCCA FC, Uganda), Watambala Abdu Karim (Vipers SC, Uganda), Mutyaba Travis (CS Sfaxien, Tunisia)

Forwards:

Omedi Denis (APR FC, Rwanda), Okello Allan (Vipers SC, Uganda), Mpande Joseph (PVF Cand FC, Vietnam), Mato Rogers (FK Vardar, Macedonia), Mpande Reagan (SC Villa, Uganda), Ssemugabi Jude (Kitara FC, Uganda), Dembe John Paul (AC Hackens, Sweden), Kakande Patrick Jonah (SC Villa, Uganda), Ikpeazu Uchechukwu (St. Johnstone FC, Scotland)