Fresh from winning four individual awards this week, Mamelodi Sundowns talisman Lucas Ribeiro Costa has provided an update ahead of the MTN8 quarter-final clash against Richards Bay FC on Sunday.
Following an outstanding previous season, Ribeiro was the biggest winner at the 2024/25 season awards. His accolades include the Betway Premiership Goal of the Season, Player’s Player of the Season, Betway Premiership Top Goal Scorer, and the coveted Footballer of the Season award.
The Brazilian was instrumental as Masandawana won their eighth successive league title and reached the CAF Champions League final. He also stood out at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, where he won Goal of the Tournament.
His ingenuity has not gone unnoticed, with several teams showing interest in him. Last week, Ribeiro requested to leave the Sundowns camp in Rustenburg with indications that the club was in talks with Fluminense. The left-footed attacker has also been linked with Qatari SC of Qatar.
RIBEIRO RETURNS TO TRAINING AT SUNDOWNS
The talented forward, who scored 21 goals last season, confirmed that he has returned to training after leaving the camp at his own request over the weekend.
“It’s been a very good season. The team played well, and it wasn’t an easy season because we played many games, but I am very happy to have won individual trophies,” Ribeiro said. “I don’t play alone; I owe this to my teammates, the club Mamelodi Sundowns, the supporters, and the coach. The coach put my level very high, and I am very happy.”
He added that Thursday’s session at the Lucas Moripe Stadium had been good. Ribeiro also called on the club’s fans to rally behind the team on Sunday.
“Training today [Thursday] was good, I’m very happy, I’m back for training for my team. I’m very happy with the training.
“It’s a very important game; the supporters must give everything, push the guys on the pitch. It’s very important. It’ll be a good game on Sunday.”
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