Sports
Francis Uzoho Dreams Came Through At Old Trafford Against Manchester United

Omonia Nicosia goalkeeper Francis Uzoho dreams indeed came through at the Theatre of Dreams, Old Trafford on Thursday night against Manchester United.
The Nigerian international dream of playing at Old Trafford his boyhood dream club finally came and the 23- year-old made good use of the opportunity to sell himself to the World by giving a stellar performance that has earned him praise from Ronaldo, De Gea, and Manchester United.
Francis Uzoho gave us a story that reminded us what football is all about, as the Omonia Nicosia goalkeeper said his childhood dreams had come true after playing at Old Trafford in the Europa League.
A boyhood Manchester United fan, Uzoho had the game of his life against the Red Devils, shared a wholesome moment with Cristiano Ronaldo, and earned praise from David De Gea after a stunning performance.
READ ALSO: Granit Xhaka Not Happy With Arsenal Goalkeeper – See Reason
Uzoho wasn’t even meant to play, with the Nigerian called up to the starting XI with Nicosia’s first-choice goalkeeper Fabiano out through injury.
But he emerged as the star man for the Cypriot club, keeping United at bay for 93 minutes and making an incredible 12 saves before Scott McTominay came off the bench to score an injury-time winner.
As much as it would have hurt to lose the game, though, Uzoho seemed pretty happy after the game having fulfilled a long-held dream of visiting and playing at the Theatre of Dreams.
Asked how disappointed he was after coming so close to what would have been an amazing point against the Premier League giants, the goalkeeper admitted he wasn’t disappointed at all.
The opposite, in fact – he couldn’t keep the smile off his face in what was just a really lovely post-match interview as he confessed his love for Manchester United… and then stopped manager Erik ten Hag for a selfie.
“I am not disappointed, because we had a great game,” he said.
“I would have preferred to get at least a point but I’m happy. It’s not an easy stadium to play in with these big players so I’m happy in general.
“Yes [I’m a big Manchester United fan]. It’s a dream come true for me. I have dreamed to play here for a long, long time so, when I saw the draw and I figured I would be playing at Old Trafford, I wanted to play.
“I prayed to God to get an opportunity to play, and I got it, so I am happy to play here. Arguably it is the best performance of my career, yes I think so.
“I am happy with my performance, but I am proud of my teammates, most especially, because it was not a one-man job. We gave everything out there as a team on the field.
“Thank you!”
Uzoho shared a nice moment with Ronaldo on the pitch as the famous No.7 recognized the goalkeeper’s stunning display.
He was hailed as ‘world-class’ by his manager, former Celtic boss Neil Lennon, who said he was ‘very proud’ of the 23-year-old for stepping up on the European stage.
“He [Francis Uzoho] was world-class tonight. I am so happy for him.
“We were a minute or two away from the greatest result in this club’s history. I’m very proud of this man.”
🤝 Recognising a top performance from @UzohoF. #MUFC || #UEL pic.twitter.com/WgFgNMaw3y
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) October 13, 2022
De Gae and Francis Uzoho
He also earned praise from opposite number De Gea, too, with the Spaniard telling MUTV after the match: “I think he [Uzoho] had an amazing game.
“I think he made eight or ten great saves for his team in the game but in the end, we scored a goal and for sure he made a great game.
“I know he played in La Liga in Spain. He had an amazing game and congratulations to him.”
“It’s a dream come true for me!”
Omonia goalkeeper and Manchester United fan Francis Uzoho was delighted with the chance to play at Old Trafford… 🤩
🎙️ @DannyJamieson pic.twitter.com/xWVfy2D2NL
— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) October 13, 2022
Francis Uzoho made 11 saves and only conceded in the 93rd minute in their 1-0 loss against Manchester United.
Incredible performance 👏 pic.twitter.com/kH4s7PDW5o
— B/R Football (@brfootball) October 13, 2022
Francis Uzoho 🇳🇬 making saves against Manchester United tonight 👏
Cristiano Ronaldo is impressed 👌 pic.twitter.com/9ChfQp6Do0
— GOAL Africa (@GOALAfrica) October 13, 2022