Lucas Ribeiro scored for Sundowns against Pirates in the DStv Premiership in September. He is a fitness doubt for Saturday's MTN8 final between the same two sides. Picture: Sydney Mahlangu/BackpagePix
Mamelodi Sundowns are sweating over the fitness of star player Lucas Ribeiro ahead of the blockbuster MTN8 final against Orlando Pirates.
The left-footed winger has been in red-hot form since joining Sundowns, finding the back of the net on seven occasions in all competitions.
He was taken off in the 2-0 won over Bumamuru as the The Brazilians advanced to the group stages of the CAF Champions League last Saturday.
“Lucas Ribeiro will do a late fitness test. The rest are okay and we have to manage the situation,” Downs coach Rulani Mokwena revealed while giving an update on the casualty list ahead of the trip to Durban.
“We have an injury to Sipho Mbule who is still out and Thapelo Morena is also out. Thapelo Maseko is doubtful, Bathusi Aubaas is out but (Lesiba) Nku is back.”
Sundowns captain Themba Zwane is also keeping his fingers crossed that the clinical attacker is available for the showdown that will take place at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
“He’s an important player for the team and it will be a boost for us if he’s available,” Zwane said.
“He’s a good player who can dribble, he’s strong and he can finish. He has it all, he has been helping the team all along and we need him.”
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