Manchester United have had some mightily frustrating games with Erik ten Hag at the helm.
As Manchester United manager – you’re bound to face some fixtures that have you pulling your hair out, and this was the case in the Europa League two years ago.
Flashback to October 2022 – Manchester United are set to face Omonia Nicosia on Match Day four at Old Trafford in the European competition.
With the Red Devils just narrowly edging past the Cypriots in the away leg, United knew it wasn’t going to be an easy task at the Theatre of Dreams.
And they’d be absolutely correct, mostly because of one man. Francis Uzoho.
Francis Uzoho vs Manchester United two years on…
When Uzoho found out first-choice keeper Fabiano was injured heading into the clash against United, he must’ve been absolutely made up, and bricking it simultaneously.
Uzoho is a massive Manchester United fan, so to take centre stage at Old Trafford must’ve been equally as exciting as terrifying for the Nigerian.
When matchday came – he more than stepped up to the occasion. He kept United at bay for 93 long minutes, making an incredible 12 saves as the home side were frustrated for the majority of the fixture.
It was only when Scott McTominay popped up with the ludicrous 34th and final shot of the night that Uzoho was beaten.
It was a performance that even left the great Cristiano Ronaldo in disbelief, with the Portuguese star laughing in shock after being denied once again on the night.
Despite the bitter defeat, Uzoho reflected on his Manchester United heroics after the game.
He told media: “I am not disappointed though because we had a great game but 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,” he said.
“Yes [I’m a big United fan]. It’s a dream come true for me. I have dreamed of playing 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.”
David de Gea impressed with Uzoho’s heroics
Game recognised game after the fixture, with one of Manchester United’s best-ever goalkeepers in David de Gea giving Uzoho high post-match praise.
The Spaniard told MUTV: “Of course. I think he [Uzoho] had an amazing game.
“I think he made eight or 10 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 for him.”
Uzoho lived the dream of many Manchester United fans – and now has a memory that he will cherish for a lifetime.
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