Bafana Bafana: Will Mamelodi Sundowns & PSL star Lucas Ribeiro ever be eligible to play for Hugo Broos' team?

The 2025 Fifa Club World Cup is on the horizon, and with it, Sundowns’ very own Ribeiro has an incredible opportunity to experience one of the highest levels of football. If Ribeiro were a Bafana Bafana player, this could be an invaluable asset for the national team. Just picture this: Ribeiro steps onto the world stage, gaining priceless experience that could prove crucial for Bafana in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations scheduled between December and January.

Moreover, with South Africa aiming to qualify for the 2026 Fifa World Cup, every bit of international exposure will be vital. Should South Africa make it to the global tournament, Bafana will need all the help they can get. The absence of stars like Themba Zwane, who may not be available for World Cup duties given the latest injury and age, only heightens the need for a talented replacement. Imagine Ribeiro stepping in as "Mshishi's" heir, offering new hope to the team. Right now, all we can do is dream of the possibilities.

They say "One man's trash is another's treasure," and this could very well be the case for Ribeiro. While Brazil seems to have no place for him in their plans - likely due to their immense talent pool - it could be South Africa’s gain. Ribeiro has openly expressed his desire to represent Bafana, showcasing his hunger to make a name for himself on the international stage.

At this point, it's time for Safa to listen to his call. It may take some creativity, perhaps even navigating the nuances of South African citizenship laws, but if it means securing a talent like Ribeiro, it might just be worth the effort. "Unfortunately, at this point, I have not received a call or an offer to play for Bafana Bafana, but it would be a pleasure to represent South Africa, because I am playing here, and the national team is doing well," Ribeiro shared.

Steve Komphela once quipped, "Stats are like a bikini - they don't reveal everything." But in Ribeiro's case, his statistics speak volumes. The numbers don’t lie, and they make a strong case for him as a key player for Bafana. Last season, the 26-year-old netted 12 goals in 18 league games - just four shy of the Golden Boot winner, Iqraam Rayners. Add to those four assists in the PSL and four more goals in cup competitions, and it’s clear that Ribeiro is a force to be reckoned with. This season, he’s already notched two goals in the Caf Champions League, while domestically, he leads the pack with seven goals and five assists, making him the player with the most goal contributions so far. Although he may not be eligible just yet, one can’t help but imagine what a dream come true Ribeiro would be for Broos and Bafana.

South African football has never featured a player of foreign origin in the national team - at least not yet. This concept sparks heated debate, as many believe the country should focus on nurturing its own homegrown talent. Orlando Pirates legend Jerry Sikhosana, for one, has expressed reservations. "I wouldn’t agree with that. We are a country that must nurture our own talent. Ribeiro is a quality player for Sundowns, but if he’s good enough for Brazil, why hasn’t Brazil called him up? It seems he’s surplus to requirements in his own country," Sikhosana said in an interview with GameOn.

When you look at the foreign players in South Africa, Ribeiro stands out as arguably the most talented and consistent performer of the past two seasons. While Gaston Sirino’s name once floated around as a potential Bafana option, coach Hugo Broos ultimately decided against bringing the Uruguayan into his plans. Ribeiro, however, is in the prime of his career at Sundowns, playing alongside several Bafana stars. His transition into the national team wouldn’t be a major hurdle, as he already shares the field with players like Teboho Mokoena, Themba Zwane, and Ronwen Williams. With such a strong local network of teammates, Ribeiro would likely find his feet in the squad swiftly.

Sundowns home page

PSL latest news

PSL transfer news