Published:
Thursday, 25 December 2025
At an age when many footballers have long stepped away from the game, Uganda Cranes goalkeeper Dennis Onyango continues to defy convention.
Now 40, the former CAF Goalkeeper of the Year remains driven by the same ambition that launched his career more than two decades ago.
Recalled to the national team four years after announcing his retirement, Onyango is set to feature in his third TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, where he will be the oldest player in the Uganda Cranes squad and among the most experienced figures at the tournament.
Speaking to CAFOnline.com, the Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper reflects on his return, his longevity, and his role within the national team.
You came out of retirement to honour a recall to the national team. What motivated this decision?
What motivated me most was the direction the team was taking. I followed the qualifiers closely and saw a group with strong character and a clear identity. They were growing into a solid team, and that gave me confidence.
The biggest motivation, however, was the opportunity to compete again at the highest level. Playing at an Africa Cup of Nations is always special, and that alone is a powerful motivation. I was also encouraged to return to help the young goalkeepers, especially after Isma Watenga’s long-term injury. The coach believed I could contribute both on and off the pitch, and the confidence he showed in me played a big role in my decision. Representing the national team means a lot to me, and although it was not an easy choice, I focused on the positives.
How significant is it for you to be playing at this level at 40 years of age?
It is very significant. I am not young anymore, but when you see players like Cristiano Ronaldo still performing at 40, or someone like Mozambique captain Elias Pelembe still going strong at 42, it is inspiring. Age becomes less important when you focus on quality, experience and what you bring to the team.
For me, being here allows me to share my experience with the younger players, especially the goalkeepers, and help raise the overall level of the team. That makes this moment even more meaningful.
Who or what has inspired you to still be playing at this level, and did you ever imagine this at 40?
Honestly, I never imagined I would be playing at AFCON at 40. I believed the younger generation would take over completely, and they have done very well to qualify the team for this tournament.
My recall reflects the work I have continued to do at club level with Sundowns, even without playing regularly. The coaches saw that I could still inspire the team and share my experience. Working with the young goalkeepers and pushing them to improve has been a big source of motivation for me.
What do you attribute your longevity in top-level football to?
Discipline has been key. My club has taken very good care of me and helped keep me in shape. I am very strict with my training, recovery, diet and rest.
My family has also played a huge role. My wife and children constantly remind me of who I am and what I am capable of. All of that keeps me focused and motivated. Football has given me everything, and I believe I must always give everything back to the game.
How different does this AFCON feel compared to your previous tournaments?
Every tournament is different. From my debut AFCON in Gabon to Egypt 2019 and now Morocco 2025, each one comes with its own story and challenges. Morocco already feels special. The facilities are top class and everything is well organised.
For me, the focus is on enjoying the experience and contributing to what I believe can be a special journey with the Uganda Cranes.
What role do you see yourself playing beyond the pitch, especially for younger players?
I want to help the team progress to the next stage because I understand what it takes at this level. I want to motivate the young players and help them understand what it truly means to represent the country at AFCON.
This tournament can be life-changing. There are scouts watching, opportunities opening up, and careers can take a new direction. I also see myself as a bridge between the technical bench and the players, and as support for captain Khalid Aucho, allowing him to focus more on his performances on the pitch.
For the goalkeepers, my role is simple: push everyone to be ready when their moment comes.
With competition for places, what keeps you motivated every day?
Competition is healthy and there is a lot of competition in the team. The two young goalkeepers are very talented, and as we say, iron sharpens iron. We push each other, and whoever gets the opportunity must be ready to perform.
I still want to improve every day. Working hard, staying humble and motivating others gives me great satisfaction. That is what keeps me driven.
