Mamelodi Sundowns legend suffers injury on African duty

The Sundowns legend was forced off during Uganda’s 1-1 draw against Botswana in their 2027 AFCON qualifying match.

Onyango lasted just 42 minutes before being replaced by 22-year-old Kingdom Osayi, who currently plays for Swedish third-tier outfit Assyriska FF.

The injury is another concern for Sundowns, particularly with the veteran goalkeeper yet to make an appearance for the club this season.

Onyango has been included in Miguel Cardoso’s matchday squad on four occasions but is still waiting for his first minutes in the current campaign.

MAMELODI SUNDOWNS LEGEND’s INTERNATIONAL RETURN

The former Uganda captain came out of international retirement after four years to help the Cranes prepare for the 2027 AFCON tournament, which they will co-host.

Head coach Paul Put wanted the experience of the veteran goalkeeper as Uganda looked to bring younger players into the national team.

Onyango has started eight of Uganda’s last 14 international matches since returning, keeping two clean sheets.

The goalkeeper previously explained why he believed having experienced players alongside younger footballers was important.

“Of course every team needs senior players and young blood because the young blood gives more energy and the senior players help the players to calm down when there is pressure to help them to manage the game,” he said last year.

“The game requires a lot of experience but it also requires a lot of running which is done by the young ones and that is what we share.”

His comments came after Put made it clear that experience would be important in helping the next generation of Ugandan players.

SUNDOWNS LEGEND NEARING THE END

Onyango’s future at club level has also been a talking point after Cardoso previously explained the role of the experienced goalkeeper and captain Themba Zwane in the Sundowns squad.

Both players understand their positions within the team, with the coach having to manage an experienced group alongside younger players.

There is also the possibility that the upcoming AFCON tournament could be Onyango’s final appearance at the competition.

The 2027 edition would be his fifth AFCON tournament, with the veteran expected to consider bringing his international career to an end afterwards.

Uganda remain in a good position in Group H despite the draw against Botswana.

The Cranes have collected five points from their opening three matches and currently sit at the top of the group.

However, Sundowns will be hoping Onyango’s injury is not serious as they prepare for the demanding fixtures ahead.

The goalkeeper has been an important figure at Chloorkop for several years, and his experience remains valuable even as his playing time has reduced.