Sibisi backs new Orlando Pirates striker Pedersen to make an impact

Orlando Pirates captain Nkosinathi Sibisi says Norwegian striker Sebastian Pedersen can add significant value to the club after joining the Mighty Buccaneers ahead of the new season.

The 27-year-old has arrived in South Africa to begin the next chapter of his career with Orlando Pirates. His move also makes him the first Norwegian player to represent the club, who are known for their black and white colours.

Pedersen’s arrival has generated considerable interest among Orlando Pirates supporters, who are eager to see the striker make his first appearance in domestic football. Sibisi says that excitement was already clear during the club’s opening match of the campaign against Milford FC.

“You can tell the excitement within the club, with our supporters when we were playing at home (against Milford FC),” said Sibisi.

“They were doing the viking, so I think everyone is excited and I am sure he is going to add value.We have seen the glimpse of what is capable of, I think he is going to help do better than we did last season”, he added.

The supporters’ reaction reflected the anticipation surrounding Pedersen, with the Norwegian’s arrival providing one of the major talking points at the club. Sibisi believes the striker’s qualities can help Orlando Pirates improve on their performances from last season.

The Buccaneers have already made a positive start to the new campaign. They defeated Milford FC 2-0 in a Betway Premiership match in Soweto last weekend, giving Abdeslam Ouaddou’s side an early victory in front of their home supporters.

Another new signing, Kabelo Kgositsile, also made an immediate impression. The winger was introduced by Ouaddou in the second half and played a role in an encouraging opening-day performance.

Kgositsile has returned to Orlando Pirates after spending last season on loan at Baroka FC. Sibisi says the player’s debut was particularly important because it came at home and ended with a win.

“It’s an exciting talent but not him alone, we have a couple of them. For him I think it was the much needed debut, playing at home. It’s going to boost his confidence and what a better way to make a Pirates debut and win at home. I think he is an exciting winger, he us full potential and I think the team will be mesmerized by his potential”, said Sibisi.

For Sibisi, the arrival of Pedersen and the emergence of players such as Kgositsile underline the strength of the new-look squad. The captain expects the Norwegian forward to contribute once he begins playing, while also pointing to the wider group of young and new players who could influence Orlando Pirates’ season.

With the club already having secured a 2-0 win over Milford FC, attention will now turn to Pedersen’s first opportunity to wear the Orlando Pirates shirt in competitive domestic football.