Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena has reflected on the debuts of the duo of Thapelo Maseko and Lucas Ribeiro.
The two new signings made their first appearances in Sundowns colours against Sekhukhune United on Friday 4 August in the opener of the 2023/24 DStv Premiership.
Ribeiro was handed his first start by the mentor and hit the ground running. He impressed by scoring Masandawana’s second goal.
On the other hand, Maseko was introduced as a substitute at the beginning of the second half. He came in for Aubrey Modiba and displayed good a performance going forward.
RULANI MOKWENA ON THAPELO MASEKO AND LUCAS RIBEIRO DEBUTS
According to Mokwena, the two new additions to the team impressed him a lot. They can only get better with time once they settle into the team.
“Lucas and Maseko are the two-floor raisers for us. I think they will settle in and offer us more,” said Mokwena.
“That’s why we brought him [Maseko], he gives the team something that we didn’t have last season. Sometimes I forget that Maseko is only 19, he’s got a lot of potential. He has to continue [working hard] with good coaching he can get better.
“[Ribeiro] He’s got good teammates, they help each other. He will get better, he has to understand the league. The league is very different, a lot of work was done to strengthen the squad in the transfer.”
OTHER MAMELODI SUNDOWNS SIGNINGS
Junior Mendieta another new face in the team also made his debut against Babina Noko. The former Stellenbosch FC star came in late in the game in the 81st minute. He replaced skipper Themba Zwane.
The duo of Lesiba Nku and Bathusi Aubaas didn’t make it to the matchday squad.
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