Teenage ready to boss the big stage

Blessing Malinganiza, Zimpapers Sports Hub

TEENAGE HADEBE is set for another big night as FC Cincinnati kick off their season with a tough Concacaf Champions Cup clash on Thursday, with the Zimbabwe defender declaring he is primed for the challenge.

The Warriors centre back heads into the new campaign carrying the weight of expectation at club level and the pride of being one of Zimbabwe’s most established defenders abroad, ready to anchor a side looking to start fast.

Cincinnati face O&M FC in their opening competitive match knowing a strong start can set the tone, and for Hadebe it is another chance to stamp his authority in a squad where competition is heating up but his experience still holds real value.

The 30 year old says he feels sharp after a full preseason and believes the hard work put in over recent weeks has him in the right place physically and mentally.

“I am feeling very good, very strong. The preseason has been about hard work, and I’m excited for the new season to finally start,” said Hadebe.

“I am optimistic. We have a great group of boys here, and I believe we can achieve something special.”
Last season, the Zimbabwe international delivered steady performances, making 24 appearances across the MLS regular season and playoffs while producing solid numbers at the back. He recorded 36 tackles and 92 clearances and posted an 88 percent passing accuracy, underlining his reliability in defence.

His club form has also kept him firmly in the Warriors frame where he remains one of the senior voices guiding the next crop of defenders whenever he pulls on the national jersey.

At Cincinnati, the fight for places is expected to intensify with Matt Miazga back to full fitness, while changes in the defensive unit have created fresh options as the club braces for a busy start that will test depth early.

Hadebe welcomes the battle for positions and sees it as a positive sign for a squad pushing for success.
“We know there is competition for places, and that is good for the team,” he said.

“My focus is just on being ready whenever the coach calls my name. Whether it’s in the Champions Cup or the league, I want to help the team win.”

Thursday’s tie will offer the first real test of the year and an early glimpse of how quickly Cincinnati can find rhythm, with the defender stressing the need to hit the ground running.

“The team needs to gel fast into the new season and stamp our authority on the pitch for us to be able to get desired results. We need to start the season on a positive note and we are ready,” he said.

For Zimbabwean fans keeping tabs across the globe, Hadebe remains one of the dependable figures carrying the flag with quiet assurance, a defender who lets his work do the talking while continuing to build a career built on consistency and resilience.