AFCON 2025: Uganda Use Three Goalkeepers, Crash Out as Nigeria Shine and Tanzania Script History

Uganda went down to 10 players during the match. They also had to use all three goalkeepers because of injuries and other problems. Still, they could not avoid elimination from the tournament.

Nigeria had already confirmed the top spot in Group C. Coach Eric Schele made eight changes to the team for the match against Uganda. Even with these changes, Nigeria played well and won the game.

In the other Group C match, Tunisia drew 1-1 with Tanzania and reached the last 16. Tanzania also qualified as one of the best third-placed teams. This is the first time Tanzania have reached the last 16 of the Africa Cup of Nations. Tanzania will now face Morocco in the next round.

Senegal and DR Congo Reach AFCON Last 16

Senegal secured a place in the last 16 after beating Benin 3-0 in their Group D match. They were joined by DR Congo, who finished second in the group after a convincing 3-0 win over Botswana. Despite the loss, Benin also qualified for the knockout stage as one of the best third-placed teams and will face Egypt in the last 16.

Nigeria Beat Uganda After Dramatic Turn of Events

Uganda started brightly against Nigeria at the Fez Stadium but fell behind in the 28th minute when Paul Onuachu scored for the Super Eagles.

Uganda suffered a major blow early in the second half as their 40-year-old goalkeeper, Dennis Onyango, was forced off due to injury in the 46th minute. He was replaced by Salim Magula, whose time on the field lasted just 11 minutes. Magula was sent off for handling the ball outside the box to stop a lob attempt from Victor Osimhen.

With Uganda down to 10 men, third-choice goalkeeper Nafian Aliyonzi came on, while midfielder Baba Al Hasan was sacrificed. Nigeria took advantage of the situation, with Raphael Onyedika scoring twice in quick succession. His goals in the 61st and 67th minutes put Nigeria firmly in control.

Uganda managed a late consolation goal through Rogers Mato in the 75th minute, but Nigeria comfortably closed out the match.

Tanzania Coach Reacts to Historic Qualification

After Tanzania reached the last 16 of the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time, head coach Miguel Gamondi expressed his pride in the team’s achievement.

“We didn’t have much time to prepare, but we worked closely with the federation,” Gamondi said. “I am very proud, not just for myself, but for the entire country. Reaching the last 16 is a big achievement for Tanzania.”