AFCON: Onyango contemplates retirement

Uganda Cranes’ first choice goalkeeper, Denis Onyango is contemplating calling it quits with international football after tonight’s last group game against Mali in the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Gabon.

The 31-year-old Onyango made his international debut for the Cranes in 2005 in the FIFA 2006 World Cup qualifiers against Ghana in a 2-0 loss in Kumasi.

“I am thinking about retiring from international football. I am yet to make up my mind fully but it is something that is on my mind,” Onyango told Supersport.com ahead of today’s game in Oyem.

“It is down to personal reasons that I want to retire from international football. I will make up my mind soon whether I should continue or not,” he stated.

Onyango had an incredible 2016 where he was crowned as the CAF Player of the Year – Based in Africa after guiding Mamelodi Sundowns to the Caf Champions League and Absa Premiership titles.

He was named the PSL Goalkeeper of the season after keeping 14 clean sheets as Masandawana registered a record 71 points to win the league trophy.

The former SuperSport United custodian also played a key role in helping Uganda qualify for AFCON 2017, ending a 39-year-old jinx as well as have a realistic chance of qualifying for the FIFA 2018 World Cup in Russia.

Meanwhile, Uganda lost to Ghana and Egypt in their opening two group D matches in Port Gentil and face Mali in a formality clash tonight before flying back home tomorrow.

This could potentially be Onyango’s last match in national team colours if he decides to quit playing international football.