Mamelodi Sundowns star Lucas Ribeiro Costa has revealed his most memorable game of the season. The Brazilian attacker has been in exceptional form, leading the scoring charts with 16 goals.
In addition to his scoring prowess, he has provided nine assists this season across 27 appearances in the Betway Premiership. Overall, Ribeiro has featured in 47 matches in all competitions this season, netting 19 goals and creating 13 scoring chances for his teammates.
His contributions were vital in helping Masandawana secure their eighth consecutive league title and reach the final of the CAF Champions League. The Brazilians are now preparing to host the first leg of the Champions League against Egyptian side Pyramids FC in Pretoria, with the return fixture set for June 1 in Cairo.
WHICH WAS RIBEIRO’S MOST MEMORABLE GAME THIS SEASON?
The 26-year-old is pleased with the team’s progress under their Portuguese mentor, Miguel Cardoso.
“The team improved all the time, not only in the best moments but in the difficult moments [as well], so I’m very happy this season,” he told MSW. He revealed what Cardoso said to him upon his arrival at the club in December.
“The moment the coach came into the club, in his first contact, he spoke to me and he said, “Lucas, in the last season you played very well, but this season you [can] prove more. So, the coach, the staff and the players push me all the time,” he explained.
Ribeiro highlighted the 4-1 victory against the Orlando Pirates in February as his best game. In that match, he scored two goals and laid an assist. “So, my best game is the one against Pirates. It was my best game, I scored two goals and [provided] one assist,” Ribeiro said.
Meanwhile, Cardoso has expressed his support for Ribeiro to win the Footballer of the Season award.
“For sure [the winner] he’s from Mamelodi Sundowns and with all the respect it’s what it is… It’s tough for me to tell, but I think that many players played at such a high level. If Lucas receives the trophy, it’s more than deserved.”
Cardoso went on to reveal his challenge to the Brazilian upon his arrival.
“That was the challenge I put to Lucas [to say], despite the feeling that you reached a good level, what else can you do besides what you did already. I think we should not be happy about what you get. I’m not speaking about material things, even the way you are as a man, that’s the challenge we put to everyone.”
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