For any boyhood Manchester United fan, playing at Old Trafford is a dream come true. Then, to produce the performance of your life, takes things to a whole new level.
READ MORE: Dream Talks: In Pursuit of Glory – The Journey II
That is exactly what happened to Omonia Nicosia goalkeeper, Francis Uzoho, on Thursday and even Scott McTominay’s stoppage-time winner for Manchester United would not spoil his moment.
Uzoho, 23, had only played 134 minutes so far this season, but produced a string of stunning saves as the Cypriot side threatened a big Europa League upset.
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.
READ MORE: AfroSports: Meet the African nominees for World Athlete of the Year awards
“I am not disappointed,” Uzoho told BT Sport. “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.
“Arguably it is the best I have played. I am proud of my team-mates though, because it is not a one-man job.”
When the draw was made in August, Uzoho, who has played 25 times for Nigeria, replied to United’s tweet, saying “finally Theatre of Dreams here I come”.
He has now played there and produced a performance that will “change his career”, according to BT Sport pundit Owen Hargreaves.
On Thursday morning not many people would have heard of Francis Uzoho. After Thursday evening, a lot more will know his name.
