Ugandan Utopia: Demystifying the Legendary Status of Denis Onyango

UGANDAN UTOPIA:

DEMYSTIFYING

THE LEGENDARY
STATUS OF

DENIS

ONYANGO

Denis Onyango during the DStv Premiership 2021/22 match between Baroka FC and Mamelodi Sundowns

Author: John Aliu

Although he ranks among the oldest players still active at the top level of the professional game, Uganda's Denis Onyango has continued to light up South African football as he approaches his 38th birthday.

Since he made the move to Mamelodi Sundowns in 2011, the Ugandan goalie has thrived and aged like fine wine.

An excellent shot-stopper and an aerial commander, Onyango has etched his name into the record books of great African goalkeepers; thanks to his strong distribution, excellent communication and big-game mentality.

More than ever in his career, Onyango looks unbeatable thanks to his imposing figure against opposing strikers and his incredible degree of calmness when under immense pressure. Aside from his shot-stopping abilities, the monumental Ugandan is also revered for his incredible trophy haul and superior longevity.

During the just-concluded season, the 37-year-old goalkeeping maestro made history as he became the first player to lift the Premier Soccer League title on nine separate occasions. The veteran goalie won three league crowns with SuperSport United, before bagging six league titles with Downs, to overtake the likes of Hlompho Kekana (former teammate with eight league titles).

“Winning 17 trophies in South African football makes me proud of myself considering all the challenges I have been through in my career. I remember the days when I struggled to gain playing time due to the highly competitive nature of the club. Despite those difficult moments, I never gave up and I was determined to make a name at Sundowns. I appreciate everyone at the club for their support since I joined the team in 2011,” Onyango stated.

Wayne Sandilands, Kennedy Mweeene, Wendell Robinson and Denis Onyango celebrating after winning the 2016 CAF Champions League final

The former Ugandan International also highlighted what it meant to become the most decorated player in the PSL, extending his league-title dominance over the likes of Hlompho Kekana, Daine Klate, Anthony Laffor, and Tebogo Langerman.

Denis Onyango saves a penalty during the 2021 MTN8 Final

“When I came to South Africa in 2006, I never thought that I would ever become the most decorated player in the PSL. The journey to stardom was not an easy one as I had to fight off several disappointments. Despite these setbacks, Sundowns never gave up on me and I am excited that the club has engraved its name into the history books thanks to its success both on and off the pitch. I still have the hunger and desire to win more at Chloorkop,” concluded Onyango.

From setting a world record of saving five penalties during the MTN 8 final against Cape Town City to reaching an incredible tally of 17 trophies, Onyango has set a new standard for South African football.

A great shot-stopper and a charismatic leader, Onyango will always be praised for his ability to smile even through the storms.

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