Orlando Pirates supporters have wasted no time giving new signing Sebastian Pedersen a nickname, with many comparing the Norwegian striker to Manchester City star Erling Haaland.
Pedersen recently joined the Buccaneers from Norwegian club Sogndal Fotball and could make his competitive debut when Pirates begin their 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign against Milford FC this weekend.
Announcing the transfer, Pirates confirmed the striker had signed a long-term deal.
Pirates have signed ‘Haaland’ says fans
“The 27-year-old has put pen to paper on a two-year deal, with the Club holding an option to extend for a further season,” Pirates said in a statement.
“He becomes the newest addition to Abdeslam Ouaddou’s squad as the Buccaneers prepare for a competitive season ahead.”
The club also highlighted Pedersen’s pedigree and goalscoring record.
“Pedersen arrives from one of Norwegian football’s great talent factories. The blonde bomber is cut from that cloth, having featured at junior national team level from U15 all the way to U21. In terms of his style of play, Pedersen is considered a one-touch finisher rather than a bulldozer. He has recorded 51 goals in his last 117 matches.”
Fans compare Pirates new man to Haaland
The striker’s blond hair and Norwegian nationality immediately drew comparisons to Haaland on social media, with supporters jokingly referring to him as “Baby Haaland” and “Haaland from Temu” despite Pedersen being a year older than the Manchester City forward.
Here are some of the reactions:
@ChrisExcel102: “Baby Haaland has landed in the best country in the world.”
@Mnca_mnce: “Orlando Pirates spent R60 million to sign Haaland from Temu. All this energy to win the MTN8 and Nedbank Cup.”
@RealTshemedi2: “Pirates are signing Haaland from Temu and the fans are welcoming him with open arms. My fanbase would have said he is another Kambole. We are always negative when our players are announced. The difference is big.”
@RM_Mish08: “Orlando Pirates fans have already renamed him Haaland. The poor guy hasn’t even unpacked his bags yet!”
While the comparisons are made in jest, Pirates supporters will be hoping Pedersen can live up to the excitement by making an immediate impact in front of goal as Ouaddou’s side begins another campaign with high expectations.
