David Obua (right) challenges for the ball against South Africa. Obua represented the Uganda national team from 2003 to 2011.
Uganda Cranes legend David Obua has reflected on the pivotal moments of his career, recalling how his performances in the two-legged 2006 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against South Africa altered his life and led him to one of Africa's biggest football clubs, Kaizer Chiefs.
Obua’s remarkable showing in these qualifiers made him a sought-after talent in South Africa, fulfilling a promise he made to himself and his mother.
The Cranes faced a challenging fixture in October 2004, with the first leg held at the Mandela National Stadium (Namboole). Despite a valiant performance from Uganda, South Africa claimed a narrow 1-0 victory courtesy of a Benni McCarthy penalty after Steven Pienaar was brought down in the box by Timothy Batabaire.
Reflecting on that match, Obua recalled the intensity and how well-prepared he was for the high-stakes game.
"Before those two games against South Africa, I swore to my mother that I will be bought by a big club after, because I prepared so well for both ties and indeed my life changed. I was so fresh as I kept myself away from anything that would distract me,” he exclusively shared to Ronald Lusulire of Pan-Africa Football.
In the return leg at FNB Stadium, Obua delivered a memorable performance. Although Uganda ultimately fell 2-1, Obua's composure on the field earned him recognition when he converted a penalty for Uganda’s lone goal.
His standout play in both legs sparked the interest of South African football giants. True to his premonition, his resilience and exceptional skill led to a dream move to Kaizer Chiefs in 2005 where he was heavily pursued by both the Chiefs and their fierce rivals Orlando Pirates. Obua ultimately joined Chiefs, impressing fans and management alike over three seasons with “Amakhosi.”
Obua earned a move to South African giants Kaizer Chiefs due to his performances with Uganda against South Africa in FIFA World Cup qualifying
During his time with Kaizer Chiefs, Obua became a standout player, helping the club secure the ABSA Cup and SAA Supa 8 title in 2006. His exceptional contributions earned him the club’s Player of the Season award for the 2005-2006 campaign, cementing his status as a fan favorite and one of Uganda’s most successful exports to the South African league.
Obua’s success also paved the way for other Ugandan players to make their mark in South African football. Players like goalkeeper Posnet Omony and Denis Onyango, Geoffrey Massa and Timothy Batabaire followed in his footsteps, securing contracts with South African clubs such as Bloemfontein Celtic and Jomo Cosmos.
After his impactful three-year spell with Kaizer Chiefs, Obua moved on to Scotland, joining Heart of Midlothian in the Scottish Premier League in 2008. He remained with the club until 2012, continuing to build an impressive career abroad.
Since retiring, Obua has ventured into coaching including a notable stint as head coach of URA FC during the 2023/24 season. His legacy remains a source of inspiration for young Ugandan players aspiring to play on the global stage.
Reflecting on his journey, Obua acknowledges that those World Cup qualifiers were a true turning point, not only changing his life but also setting a path for other Ugandan talents in international football.
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