Brazilian forward Lucas Ribeiro stole the spotlight with a dazzling solo goal as South African Premiership leaders Mamelodi Sundowns stormed to a commanding 4-1 victory over second-placed Orlando Pirates on Saturday.
The top-of-the-table clash played in front of a packed 50,000-strong crowd in Pretoria saw Sundowns extend their lead to nine points as they chase a record-extending eighth consecutive league title.
Pirates, on the other hand, continue their wait for a first championship since their back-to-back triumphs in 2012.
Ribeiro’s breathtaking opener came in the 27th minute when he picked up the ball deep in Sundowns’ half, dribbled his way into the Pirates’ box, and fired a precise shot past goalkeeper Sipho Chaine into the far corner.
The 26-year-old Brazilian, now in his second season with Sundowns after moving from Belgian side Beveren, found the net again in the 59th minute, restoring the two-goal cushion after Namibian forward Deon Hotto had pulled one back for the Pirates.
Teboho Mokoena sealed the emphatic win in the 78th minute with a powerful strike from outside the box, capping off a dominant performance by the reigning champions.
Grant Kekana had opened the scoring in the 13th minute, giving Sundowns the early lead in sweltering 32°C (90°F) heat.
Reflecting on his performance, Ribeiro admitted it was no easy feat despite the scoreline.
“The result might suggest an easy victory, but it was a difficult match against very good opponents,” Ribeiro told AFP.
“We had to summon all our energy and be alert all the time. Of course, I am very, very happy to have scored twice. The first goal is one of my best since arriving in South Africa. I saw space and exploited it.”
His brace takes his league tally to nine goals—three ahead of Sundowns teammate and South Africa international Iqraam Rayners.
Meanwhile, at the bottom of the table, Magesi climbed off last place by securing a crucial 2-0 victory over Cape Town City, snapping a 12-match winless streak.
