Former Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune has heaped praise on Mamelodi Sundowns star Lucas Ribeiro Costa, describing the Brazilian as one of the standout players of the current Betway Premiership campaign.
Ribeiro has been in superb form for Sundowns, leading the charts for both goals (9) and assists (6) this season, and earning recognition from both opponents and teammates.
Khune, who was on the bench the last time the two teams met, shared his admiration for Ribeiro's skill and work ethic.
"Unfortunately, I didn't get to face him last season," Khune told the Siya crew.
"I remember I was on the bench and I was looking at him closely, and I was like, how can this guy be such a great player? And like he has shown South Africans what he is made of, and that guy is something else."
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Khune was particularly impressed by Ribeiro's ability to make football look easy, referencing his goal in last week's top-of-the-table clash against Orlando Pirates where the Brazilian ran from his own half before finishing a transition solo.
"You look at those goals... He makes football look so easy," Khune added.
Drawing from his own experience, Khune emphasized the importance of a professional mindset, stating that players should always strive to improve, even when no one is watching.
"I saw a video of Ribeiro doing the same thing, perfecting his skill. That's what you need when you call yourself a 24-hour pro," Khune concluded.
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