Egypt’s El-Hadary inspires Onyango

The best goalkeeper on the continent; no, scrap that.

The best footballer based in Africa in 2016 as per the Glo Caf awards arrives at the Hotel du Parc lobby and the vacant sofa takes in his imposing self.

He is here to speak with Sunday Monitor ahead of last night’s crucial Group D Nations Cup encounter against seven-time African champions Egypt and the tournament as a whole. Uganda and Ghana resided in this hotel for the first two group matches before the Cranes move north to Oyem, Gabon for the final pool clash against Mali on Wednesday.

Essam El-Hadary was Onyango’s opposite number in the Egyptian goal last night. At 44, the Egyptian – who was by press time the only match-fit goalkeeper for the Pharaohs - is not only a good 10-plus years older than Onyango, he has won just about everything there is.

“He inspires me,” says Onyango of the four-time African champion and eight-time Egyptian league winner.

“To still be playing top level football at 44 (the oldest to ever feature at Afcon), and to represent a big country like Egypt at this stage, is something special. He inspires me to play on longer, to keep my body in shape.”

Open to options
Yet Onyango, who was giving his first interview since becoming the first goalkeeper and Ugandan to ever win the big prize at the Caf awards, is still undecided on his next move.

“But while I want to carry on playing for as long as possible, I also know that there is a line of quality goalkeepers coming.” Salim Jamal, one of the supposed heirs apparent, comes to mind.

“I will see after the tournament both for the club and national team career. But for now I’m happy at my club Mamelodi Sundowns because that is where I won my first Caf Champions League.” Onyango, 31, adds: “But also, it’s at the national team that I get to play at the big stage like this Nations Cup. So it’s many things to consider. We’ll see.”

China or Europe?
What if an irresistible offer came in from say, China; where money is flying in all directions? “Of course, we are all here to continue learning and showcase what we can do. We know people are watching.

“But like I said, as of now I’m happy at Sundowns. But if the right offer comes, they will have to talk to the club. I would want to go to Europe but am also open to Asia if that time comes.
“At the end of the day, football is our job. So whatever comes first. But for now, I’m still a Sundowns player.”