Orlando Pirates still waiting for Sebastian Pedersen to join squad, says captain

Orlando Pirates captain Nkosinathi Sibisi says new signing Sebastian Pedersen has yet to train with the squad, despite the excitement surrounding the Norwegian striker’s arrival.

The 27-year-old forward was unveiled by the Buccaneers late last month after moving from Norwegian club Sogndal Fotball. He signed a two-year contract with the South African champions, with the option of extending the agreement for another season.

Pedersen was not included in Orlando Pirates’ matchday squad for their opening Betway Premiership fixture against Milford last weekend, meaning supporters are still waiting to see the club’s latest attacking recruit in competitive action.

The defending champions began their title defence with a 2-0 victory at Orlando Amstel Arena. Oswin Appollis and Tshepang Moremi scored the goals as Pirates made a winning start, but Pedersen’s absence prompted questions about when he would be available to head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.

Speaking to journalists at the MTN8 launch in Johannesburg on Wednesday, Sibisi confirmed that the striker had not yet joined his new team-mates on the training ground.

“No, no, no. We’re still waiting for him. I think you can tell the excitement within the club, within our supporters,” Sibisi said.

The Pirates captain also referred to the reception supporters gave the team at home, saying the anticipation around Pedersen was clear.

“I think when we were playing at home, they were doing the Viking. So, I think everyone is excited and I’m sure he’s going to add value.”

Sibisi believes Pedersen can strengthen an already powerful squad and help Pirates improve on their achievements from the previous campaign.

“We’ve seen a glimpse of what he’s capable of and I think he’s going to help us even do more than what we did in the previous season.”

Pedersen arrives in South Africa with a strong scoring record from his time in Norway. He scored 51 goals in 117 appearances for Sogndal Fotball before completing his move to Pirates.

The striker has also represented Norway at every junior international level from Under-15 to Under-21. His next step will be to make his senior club impact in South African football after joining the team managed by Ouaddou.

Although Pirates have already opened the new Betway Premiership season with three points, Pedersen’s delayed integration means supporters may have to wait longer for his debut in the club’s traditional black and white colours.

Sibisi’s update suggests there is no immediate indication of when the Norwegian will begin training with the squad or become available for selection. For now, the club and its supporters remain eager to see whether the forward can translate his goalscoring form from Sogndal into a significant contribution for the Buccaneers.