Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper and Ugandan national team captain Denis Masinde Onyango has officially announced his retirement from the Ugandan national team after almost 16 years of representing the Cranes on the African stage.
Onyango made his international debut for Uganda on 18 June 2005 in a World Cup qualifying match against Cape Verde. From then he became an integral part of the team until his retirement and amassed over 75 caps for the Cranes.
Onyango hinted his retirement on Saturday after paying tribute to his former national team vice-captain Hassan Wasswa also called time on his 13-year international career.
“Thanks for everything my brother Hassan Wasswa16. On and off the field, you were one of the best guys around. Congratulations on a great 13-year Cranes of Uganda career and know I am soon following suit. But first, enjoy your retirement and be proud. All the best team warrior and fighter,” said Onyango.
Writing to the Federation of Uganda Football Association, Onyango, said he has high hopes that the coach of the Ugandan national team would have enough time to select a new captain and number one goalkeeper before the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers begin in June.
“The letter represents my official notice of retirement from the Uganda national football team.”
“It has been a great pleasure and honour to represent my country and I will always appreciate the experience and knowledge that I have gained while playing for the Cranes. I believe that my notice period is sufficient enough for the technical team to adequately prepare my replacement for the upcoming days.
“By remaining a true patriot and supporter of football in my beloved Uganda, I wish you all the best in your future endeavours and challenges.”
His heroic saves against Senegal in the round of 16 of the 2019 Afcon continues to rest well in the hearts of the people of Uganda as he captained to that feat at Africa’s major showdown.
Dennis Onyango has not retired from club football yet and will be looking forward to winning the CAF Champions League once with Mamelodi Sundowns after they did in 2016.
Source: Kasapafmonline.com/ Adade Joseph Macbeth