Uganda’s iconic goalkeeper Denis Onyango has been brought back by his country to inspire the nation to qualify for the FIFA World Cup in 2026.
Former Uganda captain Onyango unveiled the campaign on Friday in conjunction with Nile Breweries through its flagship brand Nile Special who are the official Beer partner of the Uganda Cranes.
The launch of the aforementioned campaign aims at garnering funds that will help the national team in achieving the dream of being at the biggest football extravaganza in 2026.
Onyango believes with this support, it is easier to achieve the dream and he has hope in the current crop of players.
The Sundowns goalie retired for Uganda last year in April, having made his debut for the Cranes as a 20 year old, one month and three days on 18 June 2005.
He captained Uganda when they appeared in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals in Egypt for the first time in 38 years. He went on to earn caps 80 for his country.
“I’m proud to always associate with the national team even after my role as an active player. I feel proud to be part of this noble cause of giving a push to the Uganda Cranes in achieving the dream of qualifying to the World Cup,” said Onyango at the launch.
“Nile Special was with us in qualifying to Africa Cup of Nations twice and I believe this lucky charm will continue with this new target.”
Uganda coach Milutin Sredojevic, who is back with the side after he helped them qualify for the AFCON finals for the first time in 38 years in 2019, believes with the expansion of the World Cup in 2026 from 32 to 48 teams, Uganda stands a great opportunity of qualifying.
“The 2026 edition is a great opportunity for us to be at the World Cup. Africa will have nine direct entries with the tenth being a playoff,” said Micho.
“I believe Uganda has the ability to be part of this number and definitely with such support from Nile Special, this dream will become a reality.”
Africa is currently represented by Ghana, Cameroon, Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia in the ongoing FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
