Sebastian Pedersen earns Abdeslam Ouaddou backing after Orlando Pirates debut

Sebastian Pedersen has been backed to make a significant contribution for Orlando Pirates after impressing coach Abdeslam Ouaddou during his long-awaited debut against Sekhukhune United.

The 27-year-old striker made his first appearance for Pirates as a substitute in their 1-0 victory over Sekhukhune in the first leg of the MTN8 semi-final at Old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday night.

Although Pedersen did not find the net, Ouaddou believes the Norwegian possesses the qualities needed to fit into Pirates’ system and provide another attacking option for the team.

Pedersen had an opportunity to open his account later in the match, but sent a half-chance high into the stands. His movement, both with and without the ball, nevertheless offered encouragement after he was introduced.

The forward is expected to help turn opportunities into goals and ease some of the pressure on Yanela Mbuthuma, Pirates’ leading marksman, who has struggled to score in recent months.

Ouaddou was pleased with what he saw from Pedersen and believes the striker’s intelligence and technical ability will benefit the side.

“He’s clever. He’s getting into the space where we want to find him,” said Ouaddou during the post-match press conference. “He’s able to fight. We are able to find him in the pockets. His technical quality is also very interesting. I am sure that he’s going to really help the team.”

Pedersen’s debut came after a period in which Ouaddou had repeatedly explained that the striker’s lack of match fitness was preventing him from being involved.

The Pirates coach continues to regard fitness as an important factor, but now expects Pedersen to adapt quickly and make an immediate impact in the PSL.

Ouaddou was also asked whether it was appropriate to introduce Pedersen in difficult circumstances, with the match being played on a small pitch against one of the most compact and disciplined teams in the league.

He rejected the idea that the striker’s arrival from Europe would make the adjustment straightforward, instead warning that the PSL presents its own demands and requires players to adapt to its intensity.

“Every league has its own specificity,” replied Ouaddou when asked whether it was right to introduce Pedersen on a small-sized pitch and against one of the most compact and disciplined teams in the league.

“You don’t have to think that just because you come from Europe, it will be easy. The PSL is a good environment. There’s speed, impact and organised speed. The level is high. I am sure that he’ll integrate quickly.”

Pedersen’s first appearance therefore provided only a brief glimpse of what he may offer Pirates, but his runs and willingness to compete have strengthened Ouaddou’s belief that he can become an important part of the team.

The victory gave Pirates a narrow advantage from the first leg of their MTN8 semi-final, while Pedersen will now aim to build on his cameo and improve his sharpness as he adapts to the demands of South African top-flight football.