For many people, losing a limb could mean the end of a lifelong passion for sports. But for Nigerian Special Eagles defender Nwakpa Nnanna, it marked the beginning of a new journey.
One that transformed pain into purpose through amputee football.
After surviving chondrosarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer that led to the amputation of one of his legs, Nnana found hope on the football pitch once again.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Sports247 the defender shared how the sport helped him rebuild his confidence and rediscover his love for life.
What is Amputee Football?
Nnanna explained that amputee football is a version of the beautiful game designed for players with limb differences.
“It is a football game played by people with limb differences, either through amputation or congenital deformity.
Outfield players compete on one leg using crutches, while goalkeepers play with one arm,” he said.
Although the sport is primarily for people with disabilities, able-bodied individuals can also participate during exhibitions or training by tying one leg to understand the challenges faced by amputee players.
Discovering a New Passion
Nwakpa Nnanna’s introduction to amputee football came while he was trying to get an artificial limb. During that period, he met para-athlete Gloria John, who encouraged him to visit the National Stadium in Lagos and try para-athletics.
While attending training, he noticed another group playing football on crutches.
“I saw people playing amputee football and realised it was possible. I searched online, found more information, joined them for training, and although it wasn’t easy, the rest is history,” he recalled.
“It Was Love at First Sight”
The former able-bodied footballer admitted he fell in love with the sport immediately, but adapting to it was emotionally difficult.
“It was love at first sight. The hardest part wasn’t loving the game,it was accepting that I couldn’t do the things I used to do with two legs. I knew how well I could sprint and shoot, but suddenly I struggled to move and even kick the ball properly.
“Gradually, I improved. I became comfortable moving on crutches, my shooting improved, and from there, the game became enjoyable again.”
Tougher Than Regular Football
According to Nnanna, amputee football demands just as much, if not more physical effort than conventional football.
“The training is more tedious because you’re expected to maintain high intensity despite your physical challenges. You still have to work on your speed, fitness, discipline and diet. It requires a lot of commitment.”
The Day Cancer Changed Everything
Recalling the moment doctors informed him that his leg had to be amputated after a failed implant procedure, Nnanna revealed that his greatest fear was not losing the limb itself.
“I was more worried about how my family and friends would react. I hate being pitied. I didn’t want people looking at me with sympathy.”
Following the surgery, he became determined to reclaim his independence.
“I was looking for every opportunity to get out of that prison mentally, and amputee football became that opportunity. Today, my family tells me I’m fitter now than when I had two legs.”
Football Became Therapy
Nnanna believes amputee football has played a significant role in his emotional recovery.
“Psychologically, it has helped me a lot. You meet people with similar challenges who continue to push through life. You learn from one another, regardless of background, and it inspires you to keep going.”
A Call for Greater Support
The Nigerian international urged sports authorities to invest more in amputee football, insisting the country has enormous untapped potential.
“I appeal to the authorities to give amputee football more attention. We have talented players who have refused to let life’s challenges keep them down.
“There are many life lessons people can learn from this sport. We have experienced players, young talents and dedicated coaches capable of developing the game. The government should tap into this goldmine.”
For Nnanna, amputee football is far more than a sport, it is proof that even after life’s toughest setbacks, new dreams can still be chased and fulfilled.
