POLOKWANE, SOUTH AFRICA – AUGUST 04: Themba Zwane of Mamelodi Sundowns during the DStv Premiership match between Sekhukhune United and Mamelodi Sundowns at Peter Mokaba Stadium on August 04, 2023 in Polokwane, South Africa. (Photo by Philip Maeta/Gallo Images)
Mamelodi Sundowns captain Themba Zwane has explained why having Lucas Ribeiro Costa available for the MTN8 final this weekend would benefit the Tshwane giants.
Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena revealed earlier in the week that Ribeiro will undergo a late fitness test to determine his availability for the final against the Buccaneers at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday.
READ: MTN8 Final: Why Always Moses Mabhida Stadium
Since joining the club before the start of the new season, Ribeiro has combined well with Zwane upfront. With the final fast approaching, Zwane has his fingers crossed that the Brazilian will be available to take on the Soweto giants.
It was Ribeiro who scored the winner from the penalty spot when Sundowns edged Pirates in the Premiership last month, so Zwane knows the impact that the South American would make if he were to make it in time to play on Saturday.
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“He is a very important player for the team. It would be a boost for us if he is available. He is a good player, he is strong, he can dribble, he can finish. He’s got it all and he’s been helping the team all along. We need him,” Zwane said during a press conference held at Chloorkop on Wednesday.
As captain of the team, Zwane has a big job on Saturday, with an opportunity to lift a first major knockout trophy of the season, which would be a big boost for the rest of the campaign.
READ: ‘Almost Every Game We Lose A Player Against Pirates’
“The pressure is always there. It’s all about how you push yourself. We have a good group of players and they give support. I am looking forward to the game. It’s going to be exciting,” Zwane said.
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