‘It’s too early to judge ‘Baby Haaland’ – Orlando Pirates supporters cautioned

Orlando Pirates fans have been urged to be patient with their new striker Sebastien Pedersen, who is commonly referred to as ‘Baby Haaland’.

The Norwegian is among the players that the defending Premier Soccer League champions signed to strengthen the attacking department. Bucs had opted against extending Tshegofatso Mabasa’s contract, while Yanela Mbuthuma, Evidence Makgopa and Boitumelo Radiopane had struggled for consistency.

Despite showing his brilliance with his former team, Pedersen is taking time to settle in Mzansi. Ex-Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns attacker Katlego Mashego is confident that the 27-year-old will eventually rise to the occasion and underline his worth for the Soweto giants.

Pedersen: Orlando Pirates’ star needs a run of games

“It’s a little bit too early to judge him because he’s got the touches and the qualities; he just needs a good run of games to help him into gear,” Mashego told KickOff.

“Against Durban City, he went in; he didn’t catch up, but he needs a run of games to help him settle. The signs are there; he’s got a proper left foot, and he knows how to position himself. A run of games should include a few starts here and there.

“He is competing with a Yanela Mbuthuma who is also in the national team now, so once his chance comes, he must take it. It’s not a bad thing to deputise Mbuthuma since he is scoring goals.

“That’s what Pedersen will have to understand. Football is about competition. The one who is doing well should always start matches,” ‘Mahoota’ concluded.