Mamelodi Sundowns and Uganda handed Denis Onyango injury setback

Mamelodi Sundowns and Uganda have been handed a major injury concern after experienced goalkeeper Denis Onyango picked up a calf injury during the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Botswana.

The 41-year-old shot-stopper was forced off late in the first half of Saturday’s Group H encounter at the Hoima City Stadium after sustaining the injury.

Onyango, who started between the posts for the Cranes, was unable to continue and was replaced in the 42nd minute by 22-year-old goalkeeper Kingdom Osayi.

The injury represents an unwanted setback for both Uganda and Mamelodi Sundowns, particularly given the veteran goalkeeper’s experience and importance to the national team.

The encounter ended in a 1-1 draw, with Uganda taking an early lead through teenage forward James Bogere, who found the back of the net in the eighth minute.

However, Botswana responded in the 31st minute through Losika Ratshukudu to restore parity, with neither side managing to find a winning goal before the final whistle.

Despite dropping points on home soil, Uganda remain top of Group H with five points from three matches, while Botswana occupy third position with three points.

The two countries will renew their rivalry on Tuesday when they meet again at the Botswana National Stadium for the return fixture.

Onyango’s injury will be closely monitored by Uganda’s technical team, especially with the return encounter approaching.

The veteran goalkeeper came out of international retirement after four years ahead of the 2027 AFCON campaign and has featured prominently since returning to the national setup.

He has started eight of Uganda’s last 14 matches, underlining his continued importance to the team as they prepare for the tournament, which Uganda will co-host alongside Kenya and Tanzania.

At club level, Onyango is yet to make an appearance for Mamelodi Sundowns this season, having been named among the substitutes on four occasions.