Lucas Ribeiro Costa, the Mamelodi Sundowns forward, has been awarded the goal of the tournament at the FIFA Club World Cup after an impressive solo effort against Borussia Dortmund. The 26-year-old’s remarkable 67-yard run resulted in a goal during the group stage clash, highlighting his talent just as discussions about Lionel Messi potential club return gain momentum.
Despite Sundowns’ 4-3 defeat to Dortmund in a thrilling seven-goal match, Ribeiro Costa’s goal was celebrated for its exceptional quality. Beginning his run from deep inside his own half, he skillfully evaded two defenders and calmly finished past Borussia Dortmund’s goalkeeper Gregor Kobel.
In a voting event that engaged over 40,000 fans, Costa’s strike was chosen ahead of Lionel Messi’s renowned free kick against FC Porto, as well as João Pedro’s goal for Chelsea in their win over Fluminense. Juventus’ young talent Kenan Yildiz also impressed with an outside-the-box goal, but it was Costa who ultimately captured the prestigious award.
Speaking to FIFA following his achievement, Lucas Ribeiro Costa shared his thoughts on the goal, saying,
“I am always confident. I’m very happy to have scored the goal. The moment I turned with the ball, I said, ‘OK, let me go, let me put the ball in the space.’ I’m happy with the goal, but the most important thing is that the team played well. I have good speed, but not normally over a long distance. This was the difference for me scoring this goal.” —Lucas Ribeiro Costa, Mamelodi Sundowns forward
Ribeiro Costa’s form is further underscored by his Golden Boot win in the South African Premier Division last season, where he scored 16 goals in 27 appearances. His performances have not gone unnoticed, as he remains a nominee for both PSL Footballer of the Season and Players’ Player of the Season awards.
Argentine Football Association chief Claudio Tapia encourages hopes for Messi’s homecoming
Amid ongoing speculation about Lionel Messi’s future beyond his contract with Inter Miami, which expires in December 2025, Claudio Tapia, president of the Argentine Football Association, has expressed optimism about Messi possibly returning to his boyhood club, Newell’s Old Boys. Tapia’s comments emerged during an emotional occasion marking Ángel Di María’s return to Rosario Central, and they add to the conversation around Messi potential club return.
Messi began his football journey with Newell’s Old Boys’ youth ranks from 1995 until 2000 before leaving for Barcelona at just 13 years old. Tapia highlighted the widespread desire within Argentina to witness Messi play once again in front of his home fans, even if for a limited period.
In an interview with TNT Sports, quoted by Tribuna, Tapia said,
“I hope so. There’s no one who wouldn’t love to see Leo come back and play in front of his people, even if only for a short time.” —Claudio Tapia, Argentine Football Association president
A potential return to Newell’s Old Boys would represent a highly emotional chapter in Messi’s illustrious career, celebrated both by the player himself and the club that nurtured his early talents.
Significance of Ribeiro Costa’s achievement and Messi’s future talks
Lucas Ribeiro Costa’s award-winning goal not only marks a milestone for the Mamelodi Sundowns but also highlights emerging talents on the global stage. His recognition surpassing that of established stars like Lionel Messi hints at a shift where rising players command wider attention.
Meanwhile, as Messi continues to perform for Inter Miami, the evolving dialogue regarding his next club holds significant interest for fans and football organizations worldwide. Claudio Tapia’s endorsement of Messi’s possible return to Argentina reflects the emotional pull the player has in his homeland, adding a hopeful dynamic to his career’s next phase. Supporters and experts alike await further developments as Messi’s contract nears its conclusion and choices about his future club are made.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Lionel Messi religious?
A. He grew up in a Roman Catholic family, practicing their religious traditions. He has two tattoos representing his faith: one of Jesus with a crown of thorns on his right upper shoulder, and another of a rosary on his forearm.
Q. Is Lionel Messi’s religion?
A. Her passing, just before his eleventh birthday, deeply influenced him. As a committed Catholic, he honors his grandmother by gazing up and pointing to the sky every time he scores.