Nigerian goalkeeper Francis Ozoho who is also a boyhood Manchester United fan was celebrated lasted night by the United fans after his superb performance in their Europa League clash. The Nigerian goalie was playing in the Theatre of Dream for the first time in his life and he made it count.
23-year-old Francis Uzoho had only played 134 minutes so far this season but produced a string of stunning saves as the Cypriots threatened a big Europa League upset. It took the brilliance of Scott to McTominay finally broke his resistance as the hosts boosted their hopes of qualifying as group winners but a beaming Uzoho refused to let that ruin his night.
After the game, he said: “I am not disappointed.” “We had a good game, I am happy, it is not an easy stadium to play at.” “It is a dream come true. I have dreamed to play here for a long, long time.” “When I saw the draw, I wanted to play and I got the opportunity.”
He also said: “Arguably it is the best I have played. I am proud of my teammates though because it is not a one-man job.” It was a game that Manchester United dominated, having 34 shots compared to three and 51 touches in the Omonia box, compared to six by the visitors in their box.
Before “the game he tweeted finally Theatre of Dreams here I come”. He has now played there and produced a performance that will “change his career.” Former Manchester United England star player Owen Hargreaves.”
He also said: “He had the game of his life, he was amazing,” added the former United and England midfielder.” “He will nick a move off that. To think he was their backup goalkeeper.”
The head coach of the club Neil Lennon said Uzoho “hasn’t shut up all week” about playing at Old Trafford. “He was inspiring. I’m very proud of him,” said Lennon. “When you play a team of this calibre you need your goalkeeper to play well and he was world-class. I was so happy for him.
“He has had to be patient. The opportunity came along and I had a chat with him about what I wanted. “I thought he was magnificent. He excelled under the spotlight. I’m so happy for him because all of his hard work has come to fruition.”
On Thursday morning not many people would have heard of Francis Uzoho. After Thursday evening, a lot more will know his name.