Uganda were left in an extraordinary situation during their Africa Cup of Nations clash with Nigeria after being forced to use all three of their goalkeepers in a single match.
The Group-stage fixture took an unexpected turn as injuries and disciplinary action combined to leave the Cranes scrambling between the posts.
Uganda’s first-choice goalkeeper Denis Onyango was forced off through injury during the first half, immediately disrupting the side’s defensive structure.
His replacement, Salim Magoola, lasted only a short spell before being sent off for handling the ball outside the penalty area, leaving the referee with no option but to issue a red card.
With both senior goalkeepers unavailable, Uganda were forced to turn to their third-choice option.
Third goalkeeper Legason Nafiani Alionzi was introduced late on, becoming Uganda’s third player to guard the net in the same match.
Uganda’s situation highlighted the fine margins of tournament football, where discipline, fitness, and depth can quickly become decisive.
Nigeria maintained control as Uganda attempted to regroup following the disruption, with the Cranes forced to reshuffle while already under pressure.
The incident is expected to be remembered as one of the most unusual goalkeeping sequences in recent AFCON history.
