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‘It’s a dream come true for me’: Omonia Nicosia goalkeeper Francis Uzoho relishes the moment after the young Man United fan played at Old Trafford in his side’s 1-0 defeat to the Red Devils
- Francis Uzoho played in goal for Omonia Nicosia against Manchester United
- Uzoho took full advantage of his chance and made some fine saves
- United finally scored past Uzoho in extra time thanks to Scott McTominay
- Uzoho is a boy fan of Man United and was still happy with how he played
- He claimed it was a ‘dream come true’ for him to play at Old Trafford
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Omonia Nicosia goalkeeper Francis Uzoho revealed he had fulfilled his lifelong dream of playing at Old Trafford after starring against Manchester United in the Europa League on Thursday.
Uzoho, who is normally Omonia’s second-choice goalkeeper, got the gloves for the game against the team he has supported since childhood, and he took his chance.
The 23-year-old made some impressive saves to deny the hosts throughout the match, before finally being beaten in extra time by Scott McTominay when United took a late 1-0 win. Despite the late admittance, Uzoho was still in good spirits in his post-match interview after shining on the biggest stage.
Francis Uzoho made some excellent saves on Thursday to frustrate Manchester United
He came to his rescue several times and almost earned Omonia Nicosia a point
“I’m not disappointed because we played a good game. It would have been perfect to get at least a point, but I’m happy, Uzoho told BT Sport.
“It’s not an easy stadium to play in with these great players, but overall I’m happy.
“It’s a dream come true for me. I’ve dreamed of playing here for a long time. When I saw the draw I wanted to play at Old Trafford and I thank God he gave me the chance to play.”
Uzoho was praised by Robbie Savage, who commented on the game for BT Sport, for identifying the shot stopper as Omonia’s standout performer.
Savage praised his showing, and Uzoho admitted afterwards that he’s probably never played better in his life.
Scott McTominay scored a late winner for United but Uzoho was still happy with how he performed at Old Trafford
When asked if it was the achievement of his career, Uzoho modestly replied, “No doubt I think so.”
The Nigeria 25-cap international was also keen to highlight the achievements of his team-mates as he pointed out that they defended well for him to almost give the Cypriot side an unlikely point.
Uzoho continues: “I am proud of my teammates because it was not a one-man business. We gave everything as a team and I am happy with my performance.’
Paul Scholes and Owen Hargreaves watched Uzoho’s interview from the BT Sport studio and both men were delighted to see that the keeper had enjoyed his moment in the spotlight.
“I really love him, and that smile on his face…” said Scholes.
“This match will change his career, maybe his life. I think that’s what sport is all about, moments like that,” Hargreaves added.