Blaise Nkufo was a Swiss centre-forward of Congolese origin who made his mark on Dutch football, particularly at FC Twente, where he became the club's all-time top scorer and symbolised an era of growth and achievement. Physical, technical and highly effective, Nkufo was a classic penalty area striker, with excellent positioning, precise finishing with both feet and a great presence in the air. He joined Twente in 2003 and, over the course of seven seasons, became an absolute idol, scoring 114 goals in 233 matches and playing a key role in the club's unprecedented Eredivisie title in 2009–10, before leaving the club with legendary status.
Nkufo played for the Swiss national team in the European Championships and the 2010 World Cup, where he was a starter in the historic victory over Spain in the group stage. Although he did not have much media coverage, he was a player valued for his tactical commitment, ability to retain the ball and his decision-making power in the final third of the field. His career also included clubs such as Hannover 96, Mainz, Grasshoppers and, finally, the Seattle Sounders of the MLS, where he ended his professional career.
Blaise Nkufo is remembered as an efficient, reliable and deeply loved striker by Twente fans, due to his identification with the club and many decisive and beautiful goals against Netherlands biggest clubs, such as Ajax and Feyenoord.
Other Links:
Career Stats | FootballDatabase.eu
Nkufo to go out in blaze of glory | UEFA.com | English
Nkufo reaches the top with Twente | UEFA.com | EnglishVideos:Blaise's Goals
BLAISE NKUFO VERSLAAT AJAX! | FC Twente 2 - 0 Ajax (21-12-2003) | Highlights
Blaise Nkufo BELANGRIJK | FC Twente 4 - 2 Feyenoord (13-12-2003) | Highlights