Ouaddou gives Pedersen fitness update ahead of MTN8 semi-final

Orlando Pirates striker Sebastian Pedersen has yet to make his debut, with coach Abdeslam Ouaddou saying the new signing is still short of full fitness ahead of the MTN8 semi-final against Sekhukhune United. The first leg is the next opportunity for the forward to be included in the matchday squad.

Pirates completed the signing of Pedersen from Norwegian side Sogndal Fotbal about a month ago for an undisclosed fee. The move created strong expectations around the 27-year-old, but he has not featured since arriving and has not yet been named among the substitutes or starters.

Ouaddou said the club identified Pedersen as a possible answer to its poor finishing record last season. Pirates created more chances than any other team in Africa during that campaign, but their conversion rate was regarded as too low. The coach believes Pedersen has the qualities required to improve that area.

The striker has impressed in training with his finishing ability, according to Ouaddou, who said it did not take a month to recognise his quality in front of goal. His immediate issue is readiness rather than a lack of confidence in his technical ability, with the club’s performance department working to bring him up to the required level.

Pedersen is also adapting to a new country and a different daily environment. Ouaddou highlighted the mental demands involved in changing food, surroundings and routines, and said those factors had to be managed alongside the physical work. The coach does not want to rush the forward and expose him to an injury risk.

Pedersen’s record in Norway gives context to the interest around his arrival. He scored 21 goals in 45 appearances for Sogndal Fotbal, but his first involvement with Pirates will depend on his progress rather than those previous numbers. Ouaddou said he also wants to see the striker play, while accepting that the integration process must be handled carefully.