It’s not every day a player delivers a season so brilliant that it stuns fans, teammates, and rivals alike.
But that’s exactly what Lucas Ribeiro managed to do with Mamelodi Sundowns.
His 2024/25 run wasn’t just about goals—it was about making a bold, game-changing statement in South African football.
And it paid off. In more ways than one.
Clean Sweep at the PSL Awards
After lighting up the field all season, Ribeiro walked away from the PSL Awards with an armful of honors—and a pretty generous chunk of prize money.
He clinched four of the night’s biggest individual trophies, including the highly sought-after Footballer of the Season award.
Here’s the full list of what he bagged:
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Footballer of the Season – R250,000
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Players’ Player of the Season – R200,000
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Goal of the Season – R50,000
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Golden Boot (Top Scorer) – R50,000
Total winnings? A solid R550,000.
Stats That Tell the Story
Ribeiro didn’t just win awards because he looked good doing it—he had the numbers to back it up.
Across all competitions, he scored 21 goals and delivered 14 assists, with 16 of those goals coming in just 26 league matches.
That scoring tally earned him the Lesley Manyathela Golden Boot, crowning him the top scorer in the Betway Premiership.
His ability to create and finish chances made him indispensable to Sundowns’ success.
That Goal Everyone’s Talking About
Among his many highlights, one goal stood out so much that it earned him the Goal of the Season award.
The winning strike? A dazzling solo effort against Orlando Pirates that left fans gasping and defenders spinning.
It was the kind of moment that reminds everyone why football can be magic.
Respect from His Peers
Ribeiro’s haul also included the Players’ Player of the Season honor—proof that beyond the fans and media buzz, he has the full respect of fellow professionals.
That kind of peer recognition speaks volumes about both his skills and his character.
Interest from Abroad Heating Up
Now, after a season like that, it’s no surprise that big clubs are circling.
Reports suggest that Fluminense, one of Brazil’s footballing giants, and Qatar SC have officially submitted offers for the 26-year-old midfielder.
So, the question on everyone’s mind is this—should Mamelodi Sundowns cash in or hold on to their star?
What’s Next for Ribeiro?
With over half a million rand in awards, growing international interest, and a stellar season under his belt, Lucas Ribeiro’s future looks wide open.
Whether he stays in the PSL or heads abroad for a new challenge, one thing’s clear—he’s just getting started.