Nwankwo Kanu: How Papilo overcame his 'Heart Problem' to become Nigeria’s Greatest Big-Game Player

Few footballers have faced adversity like Nwankwo Kanu and still risen to legendary status. From being diagnosed with a life-threatening heart condition to becoming one of Nigeria’s most decorated and clutch footballers.

Kanu’s journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and an unbreakable spirit. This is the inspiring story of how Kanu overcame his heart problem and became Nigeria’s greatest big-game player.

According to BBC Sport, in 1996, after guiding Nigeria’s Dream Team to Olympic gold, Kanu made a highly anticipated transfer to Inter Milan. However, routine medical tests revealed a serious heart defect involving his aortic valve.

The diagnosis was life-threatening, and he was advised to quit football. For many, this would have been the end. But for Kanu, it was just another challenge to overcome.

The Guardian reported that Kanu underwent successful open-heart surgery in the United States and spent over a year in recovery.

Many doubted he would ever return to professional football, but in 1997, he defied the odds and made his comeback with Inter Milan before moving to Arsenal in 1999.

At Arsenal, he quickly became a fan favorite, producing magical moments, including his unforgettable hat-trick against Chelsea in 1999, as per Sky Sports

In a crucial World Cup qualifying match, Nigeria faced Liberia on May 5, 2001, at the Liberation Stadium in Port Harcourt

Nigeria were on the brink of missing out on the 2002 FIFA World Cup, needing a win against George Weah’s Liberia to stay in contention.

The Super Eagles secured a vital 2-0 victory, with goals from Tijani Babangida and Victor Agali. Nwankwo Kanu played a significant role in orchestrating the attack, providing key passes that led to both goals.

Nwankwo Kanu delivered a masterclass performance, setting up two goals in a 2-0 win, ensuring Nigeria qualified for the World Cup.

In one of his last great performances for Nigeria, Kanu was the difference in a tense quarter-final against Tunisia.

The match ended 1-1, leading to a penalty shootout. Kanu converted his penalty, helping Nigeria win 6-5 on penalties and advance to the semi-finals.

Kanu was instrumental in Nigeria’s run to the AFCON 2000 final. Facing Cameroon, Nigeria fell 2-0 behind but fought back, with Kanu playing a crucial role in setting up Okocha and Chukwu Ndukwe’s goals to level the game at 2-2.

Unfortunately, Nigeria lost on penalties, but Kanu’s influence in big games was evident once again.

After the Brazil comeback, Kanu led Nigeria in the final against Argentina, another South American powerhouse featuring Hernán Crespo and Ariel Ortega.

Although Kanu didn’t score, his leadership and creativity helped Nigeria win 3-2, securing the historic Olympic gold.

This is arguably Kanu’s most legendary performance. Nigeria were trailing 3-1 to a star-studded Brazil team featuring Ronaldo, Bebeto, and Rivaldo.

With just minutes left, Kanu scored to make it 3-2 before producing a stunning golden goal winner in extra time, sealing a 4-3 victory.

His goals took Nigeria to the final and set them on the path to making history as the first African team to win Olympic gold.

Nwankwo Kanu’s story is one of courage, resilience, and greatness. From a career-threatening heart condition to becoming Nigeria’s greatest big-game player, he proved that nothing is impossible with determination.

His legacy extends beyond football, inspiring generations with his triumph over adversity and his commitment to saving lives. A true Nigerian hero