Lucas Ribeiro Costa shines in Spain | OneFootball

Ribeiro finds form in Europe

Photo: Cultural Leonesa

Former Mamelodi Sundowns talisman Lucas Ribeiro Costa scored the winning goal as Cultural Leonesa edged Malaga 1-0 in the Spanish La Liga 2 on Monday.

The Brazilian pounced on an assist from Atletico Madrid academy product Ivan Calero on the stroke of halftime to ensure maximum points remain in Leon.

As a result, Ribeiro's new club moved two points clear of the first relegation spot as they sit in 15th place with 17 points amassed from 14 league outings.

After a slow start to his career in the Spanish second division, Ribeiro has now scored two goals in his last three matches - both winning goals.

Leonesa will be back in action with a visit to Cadiz on Sunday, 23 November as they aim to maintain their winning momentum.

Meanwhile, Ribeiro is in contention for the coveted FIFA Puskas award, with his goal against Borussia Dortmund in the FIFA Club World Cup among the nominees.

The 27-year-old forward picked up the ball from his own half and ran the full length of the pitch, before calmly beating Gregor Kobel in the German giants' goals.

He is up against Declan Rice's free-kick against Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League and Lamine Yamal's stunner against Espanyol, among others.