Onyango on painkillers, backs Odongkara, Dhaira for Angola
Onyango prepares for a set piece in the World Cup qualifier against Senegal last year. Uganda’s number one is doubtful for Saturday’s clash with Angola. PHOTO by Eddie Chicco
Denis Onyango yesterday received one painkiller injection and took some tablets before having light evening training at Namboole as he continues the fight to shake off a knee injury.
The Cranes known first choice goalkeeper was expected back between the sticks for this weekend’s 2014 World Cup qualifier against Angola at Namboole after missing the Liberia tie through suspension.
But a knee injury picked up early this week saw him miss Tuesday’s two training sessions and start his Wednesday morning at Dr Vincent Karuhanga’s clinic. A scan on the Mamelodi Sundowns shot-stopper’s knee was advised against as it was thought to be a longer process.
“Federation running here and there, insurance, blah blah …,” said Onyango, “But the way it (injury) it is much better. “They gave me a painkiller injection and some tablets which should help me according to the doctor. I will train this evening (yesterday).”
Should Onyango fail to recover in time, the battle between Robert Odongkara, who kept a clean sheet against Liberia in his first ever qualifier, and Abel Dhaira, will have to produce Saturday’s custodian. And Onyango is backing his understudies, who also include Ali Kimera, the Victoria University goalkeeper - who is fourth in pecking order - to do the job in the event he does not make it.
“Of course, why not,” he told Daily Monitor, “They did it against Liberia. I mean, we are four goalkeepers in camp and we are all capable.” Onyango watched in approval as Odongkara kept guard of Uganda’s goal last weekend. “Before the match I told both Odongkara and Dhaira that ‘I’m not in goal permanently, this is your opportunity, do your best and take it up.’
Moroccan referees
“Fortunately Odongkara did well against the big man (Patrick Wleh) in aerial battles and kept a clean sheet.” Elsewhere, Emmanuel Okwi could be out of the Angola tie after limping off in last evening’s training after twisting his ankle. The striker was just recovering from a thigh injury picked in the Liberia game.
Meanwhile, Moroccan referees will take charge of the game between Uganda and Angola, according to Fifa.com. Redouane Jiyed will be assisted by Mohamed Abdelaziz and El Mehraji Lahmidi while Hicham Tiazi, also Moroccan, is the fourth official.
Congolese Marcel Gono is the official adviser while Obukadata Dominic Oneya, a Nigerian, is the match commissioner.
