Who would have thought that a goalkeeper from Kano, Nigeria, would turn into a lethal goal poacher in the Democratic Republic of Congo? Suleman Shaibu’s story reads like a football fairytale, one that sees him swapping his gloves for scoring boots and becoming the latest sensation at TP Mazembe, the most successful club in DR Congo.
A Twist of Fate
Shaibu, a former Nigeria U-17 international, had spent years honing his craft as a goalkeeper. But in mid-2024, an unexpected turn of events forced him to reconsider his career path. FIFA handed Mazembe a three-window transfer ban due to contract breaches, leaving the club unable to sign new players. As key players exited, the squad faced a crisis—one that Shaibu saw as an opportunity.
Instead of watching from the sidelines, he made a bold proposition to his coach: “let me play as a striker.”
His suggestion was initially met with skepticism. No one expected a shot-stopper to become a goal-getter. But with the team struggling for attacking options, Mazembe’s coaching staff decided to take a chance.
In October 2024, Shaibu made his debut as a forward, coming on as a 65th-minute substitute against Don Bosco. What happened next was nothing short of extraordinary.
Over the course of 15 matches, he netted seven goals and provided an assist, proving that his switch was not a fluke. His standout moment came in Mazembe’s 3-0 victory over US Panda, where he scored a brace and was named Man of the Match.
“They Never Saw ME Coming”
Speaking about his transformation, Shaibu revealed that even his teammates and fans initially thought his position change was a joke.
“At first, it was funny to them. They saw me as a goalkeeper with no attacking skills,” he told TheCable. “But I believed in myself. I told the coach, ‘Since we have fewer players, let me train as a striker. If you think I’m good enough, then give me a chance.’”
The gamble paid off. His performances turned doubters into believers, and suddenly, a new attacking star had emerged at Mazembe.
What’s Next for Shaibu?
With his unexpected rise as a striker, Shaibu is not looking back. He plans to continue as a forward even after Mazembe’s transfer ban is lifted.
“I have started two big games and even provided an assist. Right now, my fitness level is my main focus. If I work hard enough, I believe I’ll start more games,” he said.
However, he is also keeping his options open. If he is not given a fair chance to compete at Mazembe, he is willing to explore opportunities in North Africa before considering a move to Europe.
“If I score 10-15 goals this season and don’t get enough opportunities next season, I’ll look for new challenges,” he added.
A Lesson in Adaptability
Shaibu’s story is an inspiring lesson for footballers and athletes worldwide. His willingness to adapt, embrace change, and prove himself in a completely different role is a testament to his determination.
From saving goals to scoring them, Suleman Shaibu has shown that sometimes, the best way forward is to take a bold leap into the unknown.
