Nigerian football legend Nwankwo Kanu is being celebrated for his remarkable hat-trick against Chelsea on October 23, 1999, when Arsenal recovered from two goals down to secure a dramatic 3-2 Premier League victory at Stamford Bridge. Kanu scored three times in the final 15 minutes, finding the net in the…...
Nigerian football legend Nwankwo Kanu is being celebrated for his remarkable hat-trick against Chelsea on October 23, 1999, when Arsenal recovered from two goals down to secure a dramatic 3-2 Premier League victory at Stamford Bridge.
Kanu scored three times in the final 15 minutes, finding the net in the 75th, 83rd and 90th minutes to complete one of the most memorable comebacks in Premier League history.
Football Tweet recalled the historic performance in a post on X, highlighting the Nigerian forward’s late goals and Arsenal’s remarkable turnaround against their London rivals.
British broadcaster Piers Morgan, who said he watched the match live, also reflected on Kanu’s performance, describing it as the best hat-trick in Premier League history.
“I was there. Best hat-trick in Premier League history.. given we were 2 down, the atrocious weather, and the unbelievable skill for that last goal. Also spawned a new chant: Chim Chiminey, Chim Chiminey, Chim Chim Cheroo, who needs Anelka when we’ve got Kanuuuuuuu. @papilokanu”
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Chelsea had looked set for victory after establishing a two-goal advantage, but Kanu inspired Arsenal’s comeback with three goals in the closing stages.
His final effort was particularly memorable, as he rounded goalkeeper Ed de Goey before scoring from an extremely tight angle to complete the turnaround.
The performance elevated Kanu’s status among Arsenal supporters and inspired a chant celebrating the Nigerian striker, who became a fan favourite during his time at the club.
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Kanu joined Arsenal from Inter Milan in February 1999 after beginning his European career with Ajax, where he won the UEFA Champions League in 1995.
Despite being diagnosed with a congenital heart condition during his time at Inter Milan, the forward underwent surgery and returned to professional football, going on to enjoy a successful career in England.
At Arsenal, he won two Premier League titles and two FA Cups, becoming known for his technical ability, creativity and composure in front of goal.
Beyond club football, Kanu played a significant role in Nigeria’s international success. He was part of the country’s team that won Olympic football gold at Atlanta 1996, scoring twice in the dramatic semi-final victory over Brazil.
The former Super Eagles captain also won the African Footballer of the Year award in 1996 and 1999 and represented Nigeria at the 1998 and 2002 FIFA World Cups.
After leaving Arsenal, Kanu played for West Bromwich Albion and Portsmouth, helping the latter win the FA Cup in 2008.
His contribution to football has also extended beyond the pitch through the Kanu Heart Foundation, which supports people requiring heart treatment.
However, his three-goal performance against Chelsea remains one of the defining moments of his club career, with Morgan’s recollection highlighting the lasting impact of a display that transformed an apparently lost contest into an unforgettable Arsenal victory.