Ouaddou praises Makgopa after Pirates brace: ‘He took his chance’

Orlando Pirates' head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou explained the reasoning behind Sebastian Pedersen's limited playing time. The new striker, who joined the Buccaneers from Sogndal IF at the start of the season, has struggled to secure regular game time. The 27-year-old competes with Yanela Mbuthuma, Boitumelo Radiopane, and Evidence Makgopa for the top spot in the attack.

During a press conference ahead of their CAF Champions League preliminary round second-leg match against African Stars, Ouaddou stated that the technical team is adopting a cautious approach to ensure Pedersen is ready for South African football. "We have many strikers in that area. For sure, he's working very hard in training; we are trying to give him really 90 minutes in the legs, with the impact players, and he's doing well," Ouaddou said.

"I'm just waiting for the right moment to bring him into our team," he added, emphasizing the importance of not rushing the player. Pedersen could be introduced to the lineup when Pirates face African Stars at the Orlando Amstel Arena, where a win would see the Buccaneers progress to the group stage if they avoid defeat or secure a narrow victory.