Yakubu Joins MFK Dukla Banská Bystrica After Slovak Success

Nigerian goalkeeper Mathew Yakubu has officially penned a deal with Slovak top‑flight side MFK Dukla Banská Bystrica, following an impactful stint at ŠKF Sereď. Yakubu, 26, previously made notable appearances for Sereď and later Stará Ľubovňa, catching the attention of Dukla after registering 14 solid games in the second tier.

Born on 9 March 1999 in Zaria, Yakubu stands at 1.83 m and began his European career at Clique Sports Academy before landing at Sereď, making his Fortuna Liga debut in July 2020 in a 1–0 loss to ViOn Zlaté Moravce. After impressing as a winter signing at Stará Ľubovňa, he secured 14 appearances and earned the move to Dukla earlier this year.

The shot‑stopper expressed pride in joining Dukla, calling it a milestone in his career. Dukla’s goalkeeping coach praised his “calm presence”, “quick reflexes” and experience in Slovak football a league known for honing reliable, technically sound keepers.

Yakubu has drawn attention for his penalty‑save heroics in key fixtures and consistent shot‑stopping, making fans optimistic about his impact. Dukla has bolstered their squad ahead of the season by also signing fellow Nigerians Lucky Ezeh and Kazeem Bolaji, adding depth and competition in different positions.

Yakubu’s move caps another chapter in a growing trend of Nigerian goalkeepers flourishing abroad. With his blend of experience and composure, he’s set to challenge for the number one jersey at Dukla and help them climb up the Fortuna Liga.

Editorial

We notice Mathew Yakubu’s journey and admire the resilience it represents. Born in Zaria, he carved a path through Slovak football’s lower tiers, and now he’s stepped into a starting role at Dukla Banská Bystrica. That speaks to perseverance and a steady focus on development.

We appreciate that Yakubu didn’t rush his progression. Two clubs in quick succession, solid performances, and now a platform in the top‐flight: that’s a smart approach. The Slovak league may not be Europe’s elite, but it offers valuable minutes, growth and visibility. That’s more crucial for any player’s confidence and skill than a flashy name on a bench.

We feel Dukla’s recruitment of Yakubu, alongside compatriots Ezeh and Bolaji, signals strategic planning. It brings a Nigerian thread through their squad that may enhance chemistry and mutual support. Teams thrive when signings blend talent and culture this appears to be more than tokenism.

We believe Yakubu is poised for a breakthrough. Goalkeepers mature later, and his age 26 marks the beginning of his prime. If he delivers consistent performances, he could anchor Dukla’s defence and attract interest from stronger leagues.

We maintain that this move benefits both player and club. Dukla gains a goalkeeper with proven Slovak experience. Yakubu gains stability and an opportunity to prove himself. That symmetry sets the stage for what could become a defining season, launching his career to the next level.

Did You Know?

1. Mathew Yakubu kept a clean sheet in his first Slovak Fortuna Liga match after transfer.
2. He was the first Nigerian goalkeeper to play for Sereď in the Slovak top division.
3. Dukla Banská Bystrica last finished in the top six of the Fortuna Liga in the 2018–19 season.
4. Yakubu’s height of 1.83 m is just below the average for goalkeepers in Europe’s top five leagues (about 1.88 m).
5. Before moving to Europe, Yakubu trained in Nigeria at the Clique Sports Academy, a known pipeline for young professionals.