Red-hot Mamelodi Sundowns attacker Lucas Ribeiro Costa has responded to questions over the possibility of representing Bafana Bafana once he becomes eligible.
Ribeiro has set the Premier Soccer League scene alight since his arrival at the start of last season, contributing 16 goals and nine assists across all competitions in 2023/24.
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Lucas Ribeiro Costa ????
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In the new campaign, he has continued right where he left off, having already scored six goals and contributing four assists in just 11 matches.
Having never represented his native Brazil at youth or senior level, the 26-year-old would be eligible to for a South Africa call-up as early as 2028.
Speaking to media at the club's base in Chloorkop on Thursday, Ribeiro revealed that he is keeping the door open on Bafana.
"Unfortunately, at this point in time, I have not received an offer to play for Bafana, but it would actually be a pleasure to represent them," Ribeiro said via a translator when asked about the matter.
"Not only because I'm playing in South Africa but also because the national team is also doing well, it's playing at a high level for any football player in their career, and also because Bafana has many players from Sundowns.
"If that opportunity were to present itself, it would be great because I think that I could adapt and assist the national team because I'm also one of the high-level players.
"If that request comes, I anticipate that from my end it would be more positive, but at the moment there's no offer or anything to say if there is a possibility," he continued.
READ | Broos speaks: Sirino is a good player, but...
Meanwhile, head coach Hugo Broos turned down the opportunity of calling up Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Gaston Sirino, citing the Uruguayan's age as the main reason behind the snub.
Sirino turned 33 earlier this year.