David GOMBE
Former Uganda Cranes captain Denis Onyango says that mistakes happen in football, as he backs goalkeeper Isima Watenga to bounce back after mistakes in Uganda’s 3-1 defeat to Mozambique during the FIFA World Cup Qualifier match on Thursday at Cairo International Stadium.
Watenga had a horrible day with his three goalkeeping errors leading to Cranes defeat against Mozambique, but Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper Onyango backs him to recover.
“Mistakes happen, Watenga Isima. Even the best goalkeepers in the world have all made massive errors. Have made errors. The difference? They don’t let those mistakes define them.”
“As a goalkeeper, you live under a microscope l can tell you. One mistake, and all eyes are on you. But listen carefully: The mistake is not what matters. It’s how you Respond that defines you.”
“The moment it happens, your instinct might be to drop your head, overthink, or even mentally check out. DON’T. You have seconds literally seconds to reset. So here’s how you bounce back fast.”
Onyango wrote on his X before adding
“Own it. No excuses, no blame just accept it and move on. You’re human. It happens.Reset your mind. Take a deep breath, exhale the mistake, and focus on the next play. The game isn’t over. Stand tall. Your body language speaks volumes. Show confidence, and your teammates will trust you again.”
“Stick to the basics. Don’t try to make up for the mistake with risky decisions. Play solid, play smart.”
“Use it as fuel. The best goalkeepers don’t just recover they come back even STRONGER. Learn from it, and grow. Remember, one mistake does not define you, your response does. Shake it off, stand tall, and keep going. Because real goalkeepers? They bounce back stronger.” Noted Onyango
Watenga was subbed off for Nafian Alionzi in the second half of the contest but the Golden Arrows goalkeeper will be aiming to make amends during Uganda Cranes home game against Guinea on Tuesday.
