Harry Redknapp, the Portsmouth manager, described his side's FA Cup final victory over Cardiff as a "dream come true".

Kanu was Pompey's match-winner, capitalising on the loose ball after Cardiff goalkeeper Peter Enckelman had fumbled a John Utaka cross.

The victory gave Portsmouth their first FA Cup success since 1939 and booked them a place in next season's UEFA Cup.

"It's fantastic for everybody - my family, the players, it's great," Redknapp said. "It has been a difficult year off the fieldm, so to win the FA Cup is a dream come true.

"Cardiff were putting us under pressure, putting balls in the box, they played well and worked hard. When we get in front we're difficult to break down and the defence were terrific."

Wearing a cap with 'King' written across it, match-winner Kanu," said: "They call me king. I have to deliver and hopefully I did. I have to thank God - God made it possible for me to score.

"This is the best moment of my life. I started the game and I won the cup for Portsmouth. I have felt nothing like this."

Kanu, who hit the post with an earlier chance, added: "I kept going, I kept my head down and I scored. "You have to take your chance and that's what I did.

"Portsmouth is not one of the four big clubs, no-one could believe we were going to do it and we did it."

The Nigerian now hopes to stay on with the Fratton Park club.

"I hope the fans, Harry, everyone at the club will remember this day and they are going to give me a contract," he said.

David James, the Portsmouth goalkeeper, felt his side were worthy winners.

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