When will Lucas Ribeiro be eligible to play for Bafana Bafana

Luc as Ribeiro Costa has been marvellous to watch ever since he joined Mamelodi Sundowns in 2023. The Brazilian-born midfielder has scored 21 goals in 31 league matches for Masandawana since his arrival. His form this season has seen him bang nine goals helping the Brazilians to top the Betway Premiership.

Ribeiro is the real deal and his performance this past weekend against Orlando Pirates proved why he is the best player currently in the PSL. Is Lucas Ribeiro eligible to play for Bafana Bafana? Ribeiro isn’t eligible to play for Bafana Bafana, as he doesn’t meet the criteria for South African citizenship. The 26-year-old has only been in the country for under two years and for him to represent the national team, he requires at least five years of residency.



Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has been impressed with the Brazilian attacker and mentioned that he would love to have him in his team. Lucas Riveiro himself said he was interested in making a switch to Bafana. “At this point in time, I have not received any invitation to play for the South African national team.

I do not think that I qualify yet, but when I do qualify and get a call-up, that will be great and a pleasure. Bafana are also doing well on the continent, and they are competing against the best teams. Playing for national teams is the highest achievement for many soccer players,” he said last year.

By the time Lucas Ribeiro becomes eligible to play for Bafana, he will be nearing 30. If Broos really wants the Sundowns midfielder in his squad, the South African Football Association (Safa) and the government will need to fast-track Ribeiro’s citizenship. “There are also a lot of Sundowns players in Bafana, and that would be easier for me to adapt,” Lucas Ribeiro added.

So, I believe I can assist and that I can contribute. If they call me up, the response will be more positive rather than negative.” Should Safa push for Ribeiro? Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 .

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