UEFA remembers forgotten Super Eagles star Uzoho’s heroics against Ronaldo and Manchester United

It’s not every day a forgotten Nigerian goalkeeper gets global spotlight again, but UEFA just brought Francis Uzoho’s name back to the big stage.

Nearly three years after his unforgettable night at Old Trafford, the Europa League’s official X handle has paid tribute to Uzoho’s 12-save masterclass against Cristiano Ronaldo and Manchester United.

Back in the 2022/23 Europa League season, Omonia Nicosia were the minnows walking into the lion’s den of Old Trafford.

Few gave them a chance against a Manchester United side boasting stars like Bruno Fernandes and Cristiano Ronaldo. But Uzoho had other ideas.

The Nigerian shot-stopper turned in the performance of his life, producing 12 crucial saves and keeping United at bay for 93 minutes.

His efforts earned him the Man of the Match award despite his side narrowly losing 1-0 thanks to a late Scott McTominay strike.

A lifelong Manchester United fan, Uzoho admitted after the match that while he was proud of his display, he was gutted not to leave with at least a point. He called it a dream come true to play at Old Trafford, saying, “Yeah, it was quite an experience for me… to be able to participate as well.”

Fast forward to 2025, and Uzoho’s name has almost vanished from top-tier football conversations after several seasons of struggle.

Once the pride of Nigerian goalkeeping, his career has taken a quiet turn since his heroic night at Old Trafford.

Now Omonia’s second-choice keeper, he made just eight appearances in the 2024/25 season, with only two league matches under his belt.

The spotlight that once beamed on him has dimmed, and with his Super Eagles place all but gone, Uzoho remains a reminder that even legends-for-a-night can quickly fade into memory.