Sebastian Pedersen could make Orlando Pirates debut against AmaZulu

Sebastian Pedersen is in contention to make his Orlando Pirates debut when the Buccaneers face AmaZulu in the Betway Premiership at Kings Park Stadium on Wednesday night.

The Norwegian forward recently arrived in South Africa and has begun training with his new team-mates, giving coach Abdeslam Ouaddou another option in attack as he considers changes to his frontline.

Pirates have started the new campaign with two victories. They defeated Milford FC in their opening league match before beating Durban City 2-1 after extra time in the MTN8 quarter-finals.

Despite that perfect start, Ouaddou’s side have not yet been entirely convincing in the final third. Improving their attacking performance is expected to be one of the coach’s priorities as the season develops, particularly with the CAF Champions League a major objective following Pirates’ domestic treble last campaign.

Pedersen was signed to provide a different dimension to the Buccaneers’ attack. His arrival also increases competition for places among the forwards, although Ouaddou must decide whether the 27-year-old is ready to make his first appearance immediately after joining the squad.

The striker’s potential involvement comes at a time when Pirates have been managing without their latest attacking addition. Pedersen had to complete his arrival and settle into the group before becoming available for selection.

Sifiso Luthuli could also be considered for the match in Durban. The forward has returned to Pirates after spending the second half of last season on loan at Magesi FC, where he gained valuable first-team experience.

Luthuli’s return gives Ouaddou another alternative as he finalises his team for the trip to AmaZulu. The coach could therefore choose between introducing Pedersen, recalling Luthuli or continuing with the forwards who have featured at the start of the campaign.

Yanela Mbuthuma and Boitumelo Radiopane have both been given opportunities in the opening matches but are still waiting for their first goals of the season. Evidence Makgopa, meanwhile, is currently recovering from a knee injury and could be unavailable for an extended period.

That combination of circumstances may create an opening for either Pedersen or Luthuli. However, it remains uncertain whether Ouaddou will hand Pedersen his first appearance so soon after the striker linked up with the squad.

Pirates will be aiming to preserve their winning start against AmaZulu while producing a more effective display in front of goal. Their selection in attack is therefore likely to be one of the key talking points when the Buccaneers take on AmaZulu at Kings Park Stadium.