‘Baby Haaland’ backed to hit high gear
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‘Baby Haaland’ backed to hit high gear
Sep 18, 2026 – 07:25 pm
By Sipho Mlotha
Football analyst Katlego Mashego has expressed confidence that Orlando Pirates striker Sebastian Pedersen will meet fans’ expectations once he receives more game-time.
The Norwegian earned the nickname ‘Baby Haaland’ after fans saw his clips on social media showcasing his goal-scoring ability at previous clubs.
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Although Pedersen has yet to make a significant impact at Pirates due to limited appearances, Mashego believes there are positive signs indicating he is a talented player.
“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, himself a former Bucs attacker, tells 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, he knows how to position himself. A run of games should include 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.
“Football is about competition. The one who is doing well should always start matches,” adds ‘Mahoota’, as he is affectionately known.