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Peder Brekke - An Arctic Circle prospect

The town of Alta, in Northern Norway, is the home of Peder Brekke. He is a 19-year-old forward that can play in both wings and in the centre. He moved from Bossekop UL (a feeder club) to Alta IF at 16 years of age. Since then, Peder has played in 66 matches and scored 12 times, in both PostNord Ligaen (Norwegian 3rd tier) and NM Cup (Norwegian cup).

In the 2023 season he played quite often (26 matches, 1510 minutes) and scored 6 goals. Peder finished the season in great style, having scored in the last 3 matches.

Usually, Peder occupies the position of winger when Alta plays in 1-4-3-3 or the position of centre forward when the team’s shape is 1-4-4-2. The forwards of Alta have a certain fluidity in their dynamics so there is some shifting of positions or roles, according to the moments of the match.

As a player, Peder Brekke moves well between lines to support his midfield colleagues. He has good movement inside the area and finishes well. The young Norwegian has a good sense of opportunity, decent dribbling skills and can change directions quickly which helps him being effective in progressing through the left side of the attack. The 19-year-old fulfils the tactical requirements of the team.

He plays better as a left (inverted) winger, where he is noticeably more comfortable, active, and confident. Brekke is a player that likes and needs space to play thus, as a centre forward, he tends to “disappear” a bit from the game for periods of time.

The 19-year-old tends to position himself too much in the centre, near the striker (team tactics?). That tendency reduces the spaces given by the opposition’s defenders. Having 1,70m, Peder tends to avoid aerial duels. Due to his attacking characteristics, he lacks on defensive skills and, sometimes, lacks commitment in defensive moments. When playing in the centre, Peder Brekke’s movements off the ball aren’t very effective.

Peder has potential to play a level or two above the one his currently at. Nevertheless, he’s very young and can improve. Naturally, he’ll become more consistent and communicative with his colleagues. Once he gets better in reading the match, movements without ball and positioning, his performances and efficiency will improve.

It’ll be interesting to see how he develops this season.