Nigeria international and Omonia goalkeeper, Francis Uzoho has told Cristiano Ronaldo that it was ‘an honour’ to play against him in Thursday’s night’s Europa League clash against Manchester United.
The Nigerian made a total of 12 saves in the match, putting in an inspired display against the team he supports. The 23-year-old was handed a dream start when first choice shot stopper Fabiano was ruled out of the contest ahead of the game.
A stoppage time strike from Scott McTominay saved United’s blushes to ensure they keep up the pace with group leaders Real Sociedad. Afterwards, Uzoho was anything but heartbroken despite the late goal.
Speaking while sporting a massive beam after full-time, he said: “It’s a dream come true for me. I have dreamed to play here for a long, long time.
“When I saw the draw and I figured I would be playing at Old Trafford, I prayed to God that I got an opportunity to play.” During the second half, Uzoho managed to clasp the ball away from Ronaldo’s grasp after failing to hold onto an initial shot.
The pair exchanged a smile in a brief encounter, a moment that Uzoho shared on his Instagram account after the match. Alongside a picture of the pair, he wrote: “A dream come through. It’s an honour to share the same field with you el Bicho. IN CHRIST ALL”
‘El Blicho’ – which translates as ‘The Bug’ – refers to the nickname that Ronaldo was given while at Real Madrid due his ability to strike fear into opposition defenders.
After the game, Uzoho spoke to Untied boss Erik ten Hag. Detailing the chat, the Dutchman explained: “I said ‘well done’. He [Uzoho] had many, many saves, so many clear goals were not in, so we kept them in the game.”
Credit: thenationonlineng.net
