Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou gives update on Sebastian Pedersen debut

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou says new striker Sebastian Pedersen will soon join the squad, but has warned the Norwegian that he will have to compete for his place in the team.

Pedersen’s arrival has generated considerable interest among Pirates supporters since the club confirmed last week that it had signed the 27-year-old from Norwegian side Sogndal. The forward has agreed to a two-year contract with the Betway Premiership champions, with the option of extending the deal by another season.

However, Pedersen was not included in the matchday squad for Pirates’ opening league fixture against Milford, prompting immediate questions over when he will be available to make his debut.

Pirates began their title defence with a 2-0 victory at Orlando Amstel Arena. Oswin Appollis and Tshepang Moremi scored the goals as the champions made a winning start.

Speaking to journalists after the match, Ouaddou confirmed that Pedersen is expected to link up with the squad soon. The coach also acknowledged that supporters are eager to see the club’s latest attacking recruit in the famous black and white shirt.

“Sebastian will for sure join us and I think it’s a profile that can help us with the others,” Ouaddou told journalists.

Pedersen arrives in South Africa with a strong record in front of goal. He scored 51 times in his final 117 appearances before completing his move to Pirates, a record that has helped fuel expectations around his arrival.

Despite the excitement surrounding the signing, Ouaddou made it clear that Pedersen will not be guaranteed an immediate place in the starting XI. The striker will have to compete with the forwards already in the squad, including Radiopane, Mbuthuma, Makgopa and Luthuli.

“We have Radiopane, we have Mbuthuma, we have Makgopa, we have Luthuli. So, he will be part of the competition.

“But, I think he is somebody who is enjoying to have come to South Africa in a big club.

“We are expecting him and I hope to get him quickly in our group. I think the fans as well are expecting him. They are very impatient to see him.”

Ouaddou’s comments indicate that Pedersen’s first appearance will depend on when he joins the group and how quickly he settles into the competition for attacking places.

For now, Pirates have started the campaign with three points, while Pedersen remains the focus of attention after his move from Sogndal. The club’s supporters will have to wait for confirmation of his first involvement, with the coach stressing both the expectation surrounding the striker and the need for him to earn his opportunity.