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Ever since he scored a decisive goal in the Olympic semi-final classic against Brazil, he has been one of Nigeria's most loved footballers. He plays club football for Portsmouth in England.
Kanu started his football career in Iwuanyanwu Nationale in the Nigerian Premier League. After appearing for Nigeria in the U-17 Championships, he sign for Ajax in 1993, where he made his mark with 25 goals with 54 appearances. he was part of the Ajax FC team that beat Italian Serie A team AC Milan in 1995 for the Champions League title.
His successful stint with the Dutch side let to a lucrative transfer to Italian Serie A team Internazionale Milan, where he found out about his heart condition. Following this, in November 1997, Kanu founded KHF, Kanu Heart Foundation, a charity for underprivileged children with heart problems.
Kanu is most notable for his stint at the London club Arsenal FC, where he helped the team win their Double championships in the FA Cup and English Premiership, as well as winning the FA Cup the season after and then the premiership in an unbeaten season two years after.
The appearance of French striker Thierry Henry and persistent injuries made his appearances for Arsenal less and less frequent. He appeared for Arsenal 197 times and scored 44 goals.
After his six seasons at Arsenal, and a two season free transfer to West Bromwich Albion, Kanu settled at Portsmouth, where he currently plays.
Kanu made his debut for Nigeria in a friendly match against Sweden. He has been named African Football of the Year twice in his career.
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