Orlando Pirates News Today: Pedersen debut wait continues, injury update ahead of Chippa clash & more

Latest Orlando Pirates news, including a cautious approach to new striker Sebastian Pedersen’s debut and key absentees ahead of Sunday’s Chippa United clash.

Pirates taking patient approach with Pedersen debut

Orlando Pirates are in no rush to hand Norwegian striker Sebastian Pedersen his competitive debut, with the 27-year-old still yet to feature in a matchday squad since joining from Sogndal Fotball.

Pedersen was once again left out of the squad for Wednesday evening’s 1-1 draw with AmaZulu in Durban, although he did travel with the team.

Despite growing anticipation from Buccaneers supporters eager to see the forward in action, the club’s technical team is understood to be prioritising a careful integration process. Pedersen has been training with his new team-mates as he adapts to a new country, a different footballing environment and the tactical demands of head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou’s system.

There is also a focus on building his understanding with the players around him. While the coaching staff are confident he will grow increasingly comfortable, they believe certain aspects of his game still need to develop within the team’s structure before he is exposed to the intensity of competitive football.

Pedersen signed a two-year contract with the club, which includes an option for an additional season. His next opportunity to be included comes on Sunday when the Buccaneers face Chippa United at Kings Park Stadium.

Buccaneers’ key absences ahead of Chippa clash

Orlando Pirates have confirmed that Thalente Mbatha and Evidence Makgopa will remain sidelined for Sunday’s clash with Chippa United, while Sihle Nduli has been listed as a doubtful starter following the horror tackle by AmaZulu’s Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya on Wednesday.

Nduli, who had only recently returned from a lengthy ligament injury, was stretchered off the field after Ngwenya stamped on his ankle during the midweek draw. The club has not yet provided a definitive update on the extent of his latest setback.

There was some positive news, however, with the club confirming that midfielders Kabelo Dlamini and Masindi Nemtajela are close to returning and have travelled with the squad to Durban.

In a further boost, Pedersen and Sifiso Luthuli have been included among the forward options available to Ouaddou for Sunday’s assignment, raising the possibility that the Norwegian could finally be named in a matchday squad.