Orlando Pirates supporters may already have a clue about Sebastian Pedersen’s squad number after the Norwegian striker was spotted wearing No. 31 during training.
The number became available following Selaelo Rasebotja’s move to Siwelele FC, creating an opening for the Buccaneers’ latest attacking recruit.
While the club has yet to make a major formal announcement about the number, Pedersen’s appearance in the No. 31 training kit has provided a strong indication of what he could wear during his first season in Soweto.
Norwegian striker arrives with a proven scoring record
The 27-year-old joined Orlando Pirates on a two-year contract that includes an option for a further 12 months.
Pirates have brought Pedersen to South Africa after several productive seasons in Norwegian football, where he established himself as a consistent source of goals.
His record over the past four-and-a-half seasons with Sogndal and Moss FK is particularly eye-catching.
The striker scored 51 goals and supplied eight assists across 117 appearances.
Pedersen also represented Norway throughout the country’s junior international system, featuring from Under-15 level through to the Under-21 team.
Pirates see a different type of striker
The Buccaneers are not simply adding another forward to their squad.
They are hoping Pedersen can introduce a different attacking dimension.
The Norwegian is regarded as a player who relies heavily on movement, positioning and sharp finishing rather than simply using his physical presence to dominate defenders.
His ability to finish quickly with limited touches could prove valuable for Orlando Pirates, particularly when opponents sit deep and leave little space around the penalty area.
New signing could face Sekhukhune United
Pedersen may not have to wait long for his first competitive appearance in the black and white.
Orlando Pirates are scheduled to face Sekhukhune United in the MTN8 at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday, with the match due to begin at 15:00.
If coach Abdeslam Ouaddou decides to introduce the new striker, Pedersen could make his competitive Pirates debut in one of the club’s early tests of the campaign.
That would give supporters an immediate opportunity to assess whether the Norwegian can translate his impressive scoring record into South African football.
Competition for places is already intense
Pedersen will not walk straight into the starting XI without competition.
Yanela Mbuthuma and Boitumelo Radiopane are among the forwards competing for opportunities, while Evidence Makgopa is currently unavailable because of injury.
That competition could make Pedersen’s arrival even more significant.
With several attacking options available to Ouaddou, the Norwegian will have to adapt quickly and demonstrate why Pirates decided to bring him to the club.
The pressure will rise once the season begins
Pirates have entered the campaign with expectations of competing strongly on multiple fronts, meaning their new striker will be judged largely on what he produces in competitive matches.
His record in Norway provides an encouraging starting point, but the demands of the Betway Premiership and cup competitions will offer a completely different challenge.
For now, the No. 31 sighting has given supporters another reason to focus on Pedersen ahead of the weekend.
What’s next?
All eyes will be on the Pirates team sheet against Sekhukhune United to see whether Pedersen is handed his competitive debut.
If selected, the Norwegian will have an early opportunity to introduce himself to the Buccaneers faithful and begin competing for a regular role in Ouaddou’s attack.
Summary
Sebastian Pedersen appears set to wear the No. 31 shirt at Orlando Pirates after being photographed training in the number.
The 27-year-old striker arrives from Norway with 51 goals and eight assists in his last 117 club appearances for Sogndal and Moss FK.
With an MTN8 clash against Sekhukhune United approaching, Pedersen could make his Pirates debut as the club looks for greater variety in attack.
