Uganda endured a difficult evening after being forced to use three different goalkeepers in a single match, as they fell to a 3–1 defeat against Nigeria in their AFCON 2025 qualifying encounter.
From the opening stages, Uganda sensed that the match would be challenging, as unexpected events disrupted their game plan.
Early Setback for the Starting Goalkeeper
Uganda’s starting goalkeeper, Denis Onyango, suffered an ankle injury at 0–0 while attempting to prevent a corner kick. The experienced 40-year-old initially continued playing and produced a fine save to deny former Southampton striker Paul Onuachu.
However, Nigeria eventually broke through in the 28th minute, when Onuachu ended his four-year international goal drought. The Trabzonspor forward finished from close range after receiving a square pass from Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, a former Sheffield Wednesday midfielder.
Onyango required further medical attention before halftime and was substituted at the start of the second half, with Salim Jamal Magoola coming on in goal.
Second-Half Turning Point
Magoola’s involvement lasted just 11 minutes. In an attempt to stop Victor Osimhen, he rushed out of his penalty area and handled the ball outside the box. The referee showed a straight red card, leaving Uganda a man down and without their second-choice goalkeeper.
Third Goalkeeper Steps In
With limited options remaining, Alionzi Nafian was introduced as Uganda’s third goalkeeper of the match. Nigeria capitalized on the situation, as Raphael Onyedika scored twice to secure the win for the Super Eagles.
Despite Uganda’s resilience, the circumstances proved too difficult to overcome.
Uganda will look to bounce back in their remaining AFCON 2025 qualifiers. Earlier in the campaign, they managed to collect one point from a draw against Tanzania, which could still prove important in the group standings.
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