Orlando Pirates’ ‘Baby Haaland’ backed to flourish with more game time

Orlando Pirates striker Sebastian Pedersen has been told he can live up to the expectations created by his ‘Baby Haaland’ nickname if he is given a sustained run in the team.

Football analyst Katlego Mashego believes the Norwegian has already shown enough ability to suggest he can become an effective player for the club, despite making only a limited impact since joining Pirates.

Pedersen was given the nickname after supporters watched social media clips of him scoring goals for his previous clubs. However, he has not yet been able to make a significant impression at Orlando Pirates because of his lack of regular appearances.

Mashego, a former Bucs attacker, said Pedersen needed time on the pitch to adapt and build confidence.

“It’s a little bit too early to judge him because he’s got the touches and the qualities, he just needs a good run of games to help him into gear,” Mashego told KickOff.

Pedersen was introduced against Durban City but did not make the desired impact. Mashego said the striker’s technical ability and movement were already encouraging signs, particularly his left foot and understanding of where to position himself.

“Against Durban City, he went in, he didn’t catch up, but he needs a run of games to help him settle. The signs are there, he’s got a proper left foot, he knows how to position himself. A run of games should include few starts here and there,” he added.

The striker is competing for opportunities with Yanela Mbuthuma, who has now been called up to the national team and is also scoring goals for Pirates.

Mashego said Pedersen would have to accept that he may initially be used as Mbuthuma’s deputy, while remaining ready to take his opportunity when it arrives.

“He is competing with a Yanela Mbuthuma who is also in the national team now, so once his chance comes, he must take it. It’s not a bad thing to deputise Mbuthuma since he is scoring goals,” said Mashego.

“That’s what Pedersen will have to understand.”

Mashego, affectionately known as ‘Mahoota’, stressed that competition for places should determine who starts for Orlando Pirates.

“Football is about competition. The one who is doing well should always start matches,” he said.