Onyango, who plays for South Africa Premier Soccer League (PSL) champions Mamelodi Sundowns, announced his international retirement after Uganda failed to qualify for the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
However, after four years in retirement, Onyango returned to the national team in August 2025 as they prepared for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Mozambique and Somalia.
Before his retirement, Onyango, who made his international debut on June 18th, 2005, during the World Cup qualifying match against Cape Verde, had helped the Cranes qualify for the 2017 AFCON by conceding only two goals in six matches in their qualifying group.
He made his first appearance at the AFCON in the 31st edition hosted by Gabon in 2017, and became the captain in April 2017. Onyango is currently with Uganda in Morocco for the 2025 AFCON.
Playing at an AFCON is always special
“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 40-year-old, who began his career in his native country, and went on to play in South Africa with Supersport United and Mpumalanga Black Aces, told CAF Media.
“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 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.”
On playing at this level at 40 years of age, Onyango said: “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.”
Asked what has kept him going despite his age, he replied: “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.”
‘I am very strict with my training’
Onyango, who lifted the 2016 CAF Champions League and took part in the 2016 FIFA Club World Cup with Sundowns, further attributed discipline and dedication to his longevity in the sport.
“Discipline has been key,” said Onyango, who was named the 2016 African-based African Player of the year. “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.”
Onyango, who was ranked as the 10th best goalkeeper in the world in the list for 2016, compiled by the International Federation of Football History & Statistics, termed the current AFCON in Morocco as very special.
“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,” he explained.
“For me, the focus is on enjoying the experience and contributing to what I believe can be a special journey with the Uganda Cranes.”
Onyango concluded: “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.”
Onyango was benched by coach Paul Put as Uganda kicked off their AFCON campaign in Morocco with a 3-1 defeat against Algeria. Salim Jamal Magoola was preferred between the sticks in the Group C opener at Stade Olympique Annexe Complexe Sportif Prince Abdellah.
With two matches to conclude the group stage remaining, Onyango is hoping to make a start. Uganda’s remaining matches will be against Tanzania and Nigeria.
