AFCON 2025: Onyango’s big confession on Ronaldo and Pelembe

Mamelodi Sundowns veteran goalkeeper Denis Onyango has opened up about the driving forces that keep him performing at the highest level for both club and country.

At 40, Onyango recently reversed his retirement decision to rejoin Uganda’s national team, serving as deputy to Richards Bay FC’s Salim Magoola at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

The 2016 CAF Champions League winner says his motivation stems from the reigning Betway Premiership champions, his family, and the faith shown in him by Uganda coach Paul Put. Put’s vision for the team and desire to have Onyango mentor emerging goalkeepers played a decisive role in luring him back.

“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,” Onyango told CAF’s official website.

He added that the chance to compete again at AFCON was irresistible as he Uganda prepares for their next match against Tanzania.

“Playing at an Africa Cup of Nations is always special. I was also encouraged to return to help the young goalkeepers, especially after Isma Watenga’s injury. The coach believed I could contribute both on and off the pitch, and that confidence meant a lot.”

Inspired by Ronaldo and Pelembe

Onyango revealed that he looks up to global icons such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Mozambique captain Elias Dominguez Pelembe. Ronaldo continues to shine at 40, while Pelembe, 42, became AFCON’s second-oldest player when he featured against Ivory Coast earlier this week.

“It is very significant. I am not young anymore, but when you see players like Ronaldo still performing at 40, or Pelembe going strong at 42, it is inspiring. Age becomes less important when you focus on quality, experience, and what you bring to the team,” Onyango said.

For Onyango, returning to AFCON is about more than personal achievement, it’s about passing on wisdom to the next generation of Ugandan goalkeepers.

Sundowns’ Role and Family Support

Though he did not feature in Uganda’s 3-1 loss to Tunisia in Group C, Onyango credited Sundowns for keeping him sharp and disciplined.

“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,” he explained.

Onyango emphasized that discipline, strict training routines, recovery, diet, and rest have been crucial. He also praised his family for their unwavering support:

“My wife and children constantly remind me of who I am and what I am capable of. Football has given me everything, and I believe I must always give everything back to the game.”