Hugo Broos insists SA players should be 'respected' amid calls for Mamelodi Sundowns superstar Lucas Ribeiro Costa to be naturalised and play for Bafana Bafana - 'I don’t want to make foreign players South Africans'

Lucas Ribeiro has electrified South African football with his mesmerizing skills and game-winning moments. The Brazilian forward leads the league's scoring charts with 13 goals, making him a strong contender for the PSL Player of the Season award.

His performances have set him apart from other PSL players, sparking debates about his future. With countries like France naturalizing players to strengthen their national teams, calls for Ribeiro to join Bafana Bafana have grown louder, however, Hugo Broos has dismissed the idea, emphasizing his commitment to locally born players.

The coach believes it would be unfair to South African talents who aspire to represent their country. Broos' stance has divided opinions, with some supporting his decision and others calling for change.

“It’s not a question of liking or not liking. It’s a very good player. But I don’t think you can exaggerate with that. I don’t want to naturalise or to make foreign players South Africans," said Broos, as reported by the eNCA.

"That’s not a good way. You have to respect your South African players also. But if there is some exception, maybe he is an exception, and it’s possible. Why shouldn’t you accept it?”

With Themba Zwane sidelined due to injury, concerns have risen over South Africa's lack of creativity. At club level, Ribeiro has assumed the role of Masandawana’s go-to player. The 26-year-old was part of the Sundowns squad that recently lost 2-1 to Orlando Pirates to close the points gap to 15 points.

Relebohile Mofokeng’s standout performance in that clash reignited the debate over the league’s best player. The conversation now centers on whether Ribeiro or Mofokeng deserves the Player of the Season award. Both players have been instrumental for their teams, making the decision highly anticipated.

Hugo Broos has announced his final squad for the Fifa World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Lesotho and securing victories in both matches will be crucial to Bafana Bafana’s World Cup hopes. A strong performance will boost confidence and strengthen their position in the qualifiers. Broos will need to make key tactical decisions to ensure success on the road to the global tournament.