Mamelodi Sundowns star goalkeeper Denis Onyango has been named Uganda’s Cranes 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign ambassador.
Onyango was unveiled on Friday in Kampala where the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) launched World Cup bid.
Beverages manufacturer Nile Breweries have partnered FUFA in the campaign through its Nile Special beer brand.
The campaign seeks to raise funds to aid the Cranes maiden World Cup qualification.
Speaking at the launch, Onyango said he was motivated to support the World Cup initiative even though he retired from international football last year.
“I’m proud to always associate with the national team even after my role as an active player,” he said.
“I feel proud to be part of this noble cause of giving a push to the Uganda Cranes in achieving the dream of qualifying to the World Cup.
“Nile Special was with us in qualifying to Africa Cup of Nations twice and I believe this lucky charm will continue with this new target,” he added.
SUNDOWNS KEEPER TAKES ADVANTAGE OF BREAK
Onyango has returned home taking advantage of the World Cup-induced domestic football break in South Africa.
Cranes coach Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic said Uganda stood a chance of making it to the 2026 World Cup, as it would be expanded from 32 to 48 teams.
“The 2026 edition is a great opportunity for us to be at World Cup,” said the former Orlando Pirates coach.
“Africa will have nine direct entries with the tenth being a playoff.
“I believe Uganda has the ability to be part of this number and definitely with such support from Nile Special, this dream will become a reality.”
Nile Special Connections Manager John Paul Ssemakula has since urged Ugandas to support the initiative dubbed Cranes Kabbo Campaign.
“As Nile Special we feel proud to associate with FUFA and the Uganda Cranes in bid to realize the dream of playing at the biggest stage of football,” he said.
No East African country has ever qualified for the World Cup finals.
The 2022 edition of the World Cup gets in motion on Sunday in Qatar.
FACTS ABOUT CRANES KABBO CAMPAIGN
50 Uganda Shillings for a Nile Special bought to go towards the campaign
Nile Special will hold activations during the 2022 World Cup.
400 million Uganda Shillings targeted.
