Uganda made unwanted Africa Cup of Nations history on Tuesday after becoming the first team to use three goalkeepers in a single AFCON match, during their Group C defeat to Nigeria.
The unprecedented sequence unfolded in Uganda’s final group game at the Africa Cup of Nations, a match that ultimately ended in a 3–1 loss to Nigeria and confirmed the Cranes’ elimination from the competition.
Uganda began the match with their veteran first-choice goalkeeper, Denis Onyango, but the experienced shot-stopper was forced off at half-time after picking up an injury. His withdrawal prompted head coach Paul Put to introduce Salim Magoola at the start of the second half.
Magoola’s appearance, however, proved brief and dramatic. In the 56th minute, the substitute goalkeeper rushed out of his penalty area and used his hands to stop a goal-bound effort from Victor Osimhen. The infringement occurred several yards outside the box, leaving the referee with no option but to show a straight red card.
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The dismissal forced Uganda into further improvisation, compelling Put to call on his third-choice goalkeeper, Nafian Alionzi, who entered the match cold with his team already trailing and down to 10 men.
Despite Alionzi’s introduction, Nigeria took full advantage of their numerical superiority, scoring twice in quick succession to effectively decide the contest. Uganda later pulled back a consolation goal through Rogers Mato, but the damage had long been done.
Tournament statisticians confirmed after the match that Uganda’s triple-goalkeeper rotation was a first in Africa Cup of Nations history, underlining the chaotic nature of a campaign that saw the East Africans struggle for stability both on and off the pitch.
Uganda exited the tournament without a win, extending their long wait for an AFCON victory, while Nigeria advanced to the knockout phase with a perfect group-stage record. For Uganda, however, the night in Fes will be remembered less for the result and more for a record they would rather not own.
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