Denis Onyango appointed Uganda technical director…what you need to know
Denis Onyango returns as Uganda’s goalkeeping mentor
Uganda football icon Denis Onyango has officially been appointed as Technical Director and guest goalkeeping coach for the national team ahead of the CHAN 2024 tournament. The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) confirmed that the Mamelodi Sundowns legend will provide crucial technical support as the Cranes gear up for a decisive campaign at home.
Onyango, who recently ended his international career in 2021, will travel with co-head coaches Morley Byekwaso and Fred Muhumuza, offering strategic guidance, mentoring, and technical know-how, especially to the team’s goalkeepers.
Uganda Names 29‑Man Squad as Denis Onyango Joins Technical Bench
In the latest CHAN camp update, FUFA revealed a streamlined 29-man provisional squad, with Onyango immediately deployed to supervise and mentor the four goalkeepers: Joel Mutakubwa, Crispas Kusiima, Denis Kiggundu, and Hannington Sebwalunyo.
Onyango, currently on his offseason break, is expected to share techniques, enhance confidence, and boost technical readiness as the team hones its arsenal ahead of a final 23-man selection set for August’s continental showdown.
From National Hero to Technical Pioneer
Born in Kampala in 1985, Denis Masinde Onyango rose to prominence with SC Villa before venturing into international club football. His career highlights include a CAF Champions League title and a 2016 African-based Player of the Year award with Mamelodi Sundowns. As Uganda’s national team captain, he earned 82 caps and led the side in two AFCON tournaments before retiring in 2021.
Beyond the pitch, Onyango is respected for his humility and leadership, a quote attributed to him says, “to be a role model, you have to be humble no matter how big a star you are”.
Onyango’s Role: Mentoring the Next Generation
Technical director duties will see Onyango:
- Overseeing goalkeeper development, including training sessions and performance reviews
- Advising coaches on strategy and tactics during camp drills and match simulations
- Strengthening team discipline and character, drawing from his professional experience
- Bridging local and international best practices, ensuring continuity in football development
His presence adds prestige and depth to Uganda’s technical bench, validating players’ ambitions and inspiring confidence.
Uganda’s CHAN Ambitions: Breaking the Group Stage Barrier
Uganda has qualified for every CHAN since 2011 but has yet to progress past the group stage. Co-coach Morley Byekwaso emphasized that this year, with tournaments on home soil and added technical support, the Cranes are prepared to “deliver” on expectations.
Onyango’s technical input, particularly in goalkeeping, is expected to be a key differentiator as Uganda battles against tough Group C opponents such as Algeria, South Africa, Guinea, and Niger.
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Community Reaction: Mixed Excitement and High Hopes
Fans and pundits have largely welcomed Onyango’s appointment. Social media is buzzing with appreciation:
“A legend returns. This is exactly what the Cranes need!”
“Onyango’s leadership on and off the pitch will lift our goalkeepers and team morale”
Analysts believe his dual role as mentor and technical advisor may have a lasting positive effect on Ugandan football, beyond CHAN 2024.
What Lies Ahead for Denis Onyango and the Uganda Cranes?
Onyango is set to permanently take up temporary technical duties during the CHAN period. The Cranes will rely on his seasoned eye and authoritative presence between the posts.
As the tournament kicks off on August 2 at Namboole Stadium, fans will be watching to see whether Uganda can turn years of promise into historic progress, with Denis Onyango leading the charge from behind the scenes.
