TEENAGE HADEBE FC Cincinnati Defender #16: Key Player Profile and Impact Analysis
Teenage Hadebe joins FC Cincinnati as their new number 16, and folks, he brings some serious international experience and grit to the back line. Born in Zimbabwe, Hadebe has already made a name for himself as a strong center back. He arrives in Cincinnati after stints in some pretty competitive leagues, and fans can’t wait to see how he’ll shake up the team’s defense.
Hadebe’s track record really jumps off the page. He makes smart tackles, wins aerial duels, and just doesn’t seem to panic, even when things get dicey. His past clubs and stats underline his consistency—he’s a rock at the back. If you want to dig deeper into his numbers, check out his full player profile.
With all that professional experience, Hadebe is set to anchor the defense and guide the younger guys on the squad. The coaching staff and the fans will be keeping a close eye as he gets to work in MLS.
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Teenage Hadebe: Profile and Background
Teenage Hadebe stands out as a standout defender for FC Cincinnati, wearing the number 16 shirt. He’s built a reputation for steady play, international know-how, and a physical style that intimidates attackers.
Early Life and Place of Birth
Hadebe grew up in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe—a city with a deep sports tradition and plenty of soccer history. From an early age, he was surrounded by football.
He got his start with local clubs, showing real promise as a defender. Bulawayo’s tough competition and rich soccer culture gave him the push he needed.
That environment shaped his game. Local leagues and mentors played a big part in his development. By his teens, scouts around Zimbabwe—and even beyond—had already started to notice him.
Date of Birth and Age
Teenage Hadebe’s full name? Teenage Lingani Hadebe. He was born on September 17, 1995.
As of June 2025, he’s 29 years old and right in his prime. In his twenties, Hadebe gained experience in different countries and represented Zimbabwe on the international stage.
He brings leadership and a calming presence to any back line. Fans have watched him grow into a reliable figure for both club and country.
Physical Attributes and Foot
Hadebe’s physical tools make him a handful for any attacker in MLS. He stands 1.88 meters tall (about 6’2”) and tips the scales at around 163 pounds.
That height and athletic build help him dominate in the air and make him a real threat on set pieces. He’s a left-footer, which gives Cincinnati good balance at the back and helps them play out from defense.
His strength and footwork let him keep up with speedy attackers and adjust to different matchups. He’s tough to beat in one-on-one situations.
Key Physical Data Table:
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Height | 1.88 m (6 ft 2 in) |
| Weight | 163 lbs |
| Dominant foot | Left |
Hadebe’s ability in the air and his comfort with the ball at his feet define his style. For a full rundown, head to FC Cincinnati’s official player page.
Defender Role and Playing Style
Teenage Hadebe brings a cool, left-footed presence to FC Cincinnati’s defense. He’s reliable, physical, and has the kind of international experience you want anchoring your back line.
His skill, strength, and awareness fit right into what MLS demands from its defenders.
Primary Position: Center Back
Hadebe lines up as a central defender, right in the heart of the action. At 6’2”, he’s a force in the air, clearing crosses and set pieces with authority.
FC Cincinnati handed him the number 16 shirt, plugging him right into a defense that needed some steel. He’s usually on the left side of the center back pairing, making use of that strong left foot.
This positioning helps Cincinnati build out from the back and switch play when needed.
| Season | Club | Position | Appearances | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | FC Cincinnati | Center Back | 10 | 850 |
| 2023 | Houston Dynamo | Center Back | 18 | 1350 |
Defensive Quality and Strengths
Hadebe is a strong tackler with great timing. He keeps his feet, avoids rash challenges, and rarely gives away dangerous fouls.
He reads the game well, often stepping in to intercept passes before they become problems. Under pressure, he stays calm and keeps the ball moving.
He’s especially good at:
- Winning aerial battles
- Blocking shots
- Marking big, physical forwards
League stats show Hadebe averages over 2 interceptions and 4 clearances a game. He brings energy and focus for the full 90 minutes, helping Cincinnati stay organized when things get tough.
International Experience
Hadebe has plenty of experience with the Zimbabwean national team. He’s played in African Cup of Nations tournaments and World Cup qualifiers, facing all sorts of strikers.
That kind of variety keeps him sharp. He’s regularly called up for Zimbabwe, which helps him stay at the top of his game.
His international background adds a level of maturity and tactical awareness to his club play. For more about his journey, check out the FC Cincinnati official player page.
Club Career Journey
Teenage Hadebe’s journey started in Zimbabwe and took him across continents, testing himself in tougher leagues each step of the way.
He’s shown adaptability, versatility, and a knack for big moments wherever he’s played.
Early Clubs in Zimbabwe
Hadebe began with Highlanders FC, one of Zimbabwe’s most storied clubs. As a young defender, he stood out for his height, left foot, and tackling ability.
He then moved to Bantu Tshintsha Guluva Rovers, where he kept sharpening his skills and positional sense.
After that, he joined Chicken Inn FC. This move gave him more playing time and a bigger stage. At Chicken Inn, he anchored the defense and helped the team win a Premier League title.
Notable Zimbabwean Clubs Table
| Club Name | Years Played | Notable Achievement |
|---|---|---|
| Highlanders FC | 2013–2015 | Senior team debut |
| Bantu Tshintsha Guluva Rovers | 2015–2016 | Developed key skills |
| Chicken Inn FC | 2016–2017 | Premier League title winner |
Move to Turkish Süper Lig
In 2019, Hadebe signed with Yeni Malatyaspor and jumped into the Turkish Süper Lig. The league’s pace and tactical demands were a step up, but he adjusted quickly.
He became a regular starter, holding his own against some of Turkey’s best. Big matches—like those against Konyaspor—really highlighted his leadership and discipline.
His performances in Turkey put him on the radar for clubs across Europe.
Key Süper Lig Stats
| Season | Club | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019–21 | Yeni Malatyaspor | 57 | 2 |
European Competition Experience
While at Yeni Malatyaspor, Hadebe also got a taste of European football. The club entered the UEFA Europa League qualifiers in 2019–20, and he saw action against continental opposition.
Those matches brought new challenges. Hadebe handled the pressure and adapted to different playing styles. Even though the Europa League run was short, the experience made him a smarter, more tactical defender.
MLS Career Highlights
Teenage Hadebe has made his mark in Major League Soccer with steady defense and the ability to adapt to new surroundings. He’s grown into a leader and a dependable center back.
Houston Dynamo Tenure
Hadebe joined Houston Dynamo FC in 2021 after his international travels. He quickly locked down a spot in the back line and played most matches when healthy.
He earned respect for his work rate and even wore the captain’s armband a few times. Hadebe contributed some key defensive stops and even found the net on set pieces.
Houston Dynamo FC Stats
| Season | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Yellow Cards |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 17 | 1 | 0 | 3 |
| 2022 | 27 | 2 | 1 | 5 |
| 2023 | 12 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
Even through injuries and lineup changes, Hadebe remained a steadying force for Houston’s defense.
Move to FC Cincinnati
In August 2024, FC Cincinnati brought Hadebe in during the MLS secondary transfer window. They traded General Allocation Money and a draft pick to get him.
He signed through 2025, with an option for 2026, and made an immediate impact. Hadebe notched his first assist shortly after arriving, showing he can contribute at both ends.
His signing made waves—not just for his play, but for a reported salary around $705,000 a year, putting him among the team’s top earners.
He stepped right into the starting lineup, wearing number 16, and helped Cincinnati push up the Eastern Conference standings. His experience and size made a difference in some big league matches.
Teenage Hadebe at FC Cincinnati
Teenage Hadebe, sporting the number 16, lines up at center back for FC Cincinnati. He’s a Zimbabwean defender who brings physicality and dependability to Major League Soccer.
Signing and Transfer Details
Alright, folks, let’s get right into it. FC Cincinnati made a statement by bringing in Teenage Hadebe, showing they’re not messing around when it comes to shoring up that backline.
They locked him down through the 2025 MLS season, and—get this—there’s even an option for 2026 if things go well. That’s a big move, adding a defender who’s right in his prime.
To wrap up the transfer, Cincinnati sent over a conditional $50,000 in 2025 General Allocation Money (GAM) and tossed in their 2025 first-round MLS SuperDraft pick. That deal sealed Hadebe’s Right of First Refusal, so Cincinnati could pull the trigger.
He arrived after some back-and-forth negotiations and, of course, the standard MLS roster approval. Chris Albright, the general manager, really put his stamp on this one.
The club zeroed in on Hadebe as a crucial piece for their defense. His contract, especially with that option year, gives Cincinnati some breathing room for future moves.
If you want to dig deeper, you can check out the FC Cincinnati official roster.
Debut and Appearances
As soon as Hadebe joined up, he didn’t waste any time—straight into the starting lineup. You could see why he stood out at his previous clubs.
He debuted in the 2025 MLS season and started stacking up appearances as a rock-solid defender. Right away, he impressed with his aerial ability and sharp positioning.
Those early matches? He racked up clearances, interceptions, and kept things calm at the back. Teammates and coaches have already noticed his organization and that vocal presence you want in a leader.
Let’s take a look at his numbers for the 2025 season so far:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 12 |
| Starts | 12 |
| Minutes Played | 1,050 |
| Tackles | 27 |
| Interceptions | 19 |
| Clearances | 46 |
You can always find more stats and game logs on Hadebe’s MLS player profile.
Defender #16 in the 2025 Season
Hadebe isn’t just another name on the roster—he anchors the Cincinnati defense as their go-to center back. He wears number 16 and takes on the job of marking the league’s best attackers every match.
His presence brings consistency and a veteran’s touch, especially when the pressure ramps up. As the season rolls on, his influence keeps growing, not just defensively but as a set-piece threat too.
He’s the first name on the team sheet for a reason. His physicality and timing in challenges help Cincinnati keep opponents at bay.
Fans and analysts are already talking about his impact, especially in those nail-biter moments late in games. The contract, with that 2026 option, means Cincinnati can build around him for more than just this season.
Want more on his move? Check out detailed coverage of his transfer and signing.
Performance Statistics
Teenage Hadebe, repping the number 16 for FC Cincinnati, has turned heads with his work rate and reliability since joining up in August 2024.
He’s logged plenty of minutes and played a big role in organizing the backline.
Appearances and Playing Time
FC Cincinnati picked up Hadebe late in the 2024 MLS season, and he wasted no time becoming a regular starter. He usually plays as a left-footed center back but can fill in elsewhere if needed.
In both the 2024 and 2025 seasons, he’s featured in a bunch of matches. Here’s a quick snapshot of his numbers:
| Season | Matches Played | Minutes Played | Starts | Substitute |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 10 | 900 | 10 | 0 |
| 2025 | 15 | 1310 | 15 | 0 |
Hadebe’s consistent presence shows just how much the team counts on him. He almost always plays the full 90, rarely coming off.
His fitness and experience make him a go-to guy, especially when matches get tight. You can find more on his minutes and appearances at the FC Cincinnati website.
Goals and Assists
Hadebe’s not on the field to score goals, but he’s chipped in on occasion—especially during set pieces. So far, he’s got 1 goal and 1 assist in league play.
No one expects him to be a regular goal threat, but his ability to pop up with a header from a corner or free kick is a nice bonus.
His goal involvement is modest, sure, but it shows he’s willing to get forward when the moment’s right. Want the full breakdown? Head over to Transfermarkt.
Team of the Week Nominations
The league has taken notice—Hadebe’s landed on the MLS Team of the Week shortlist, thanks to some standout defensive performances.
Those nods usually come after games where he racks up clearances and blocks, helping Cincinnati keep clean sheets. Being a left-footed defender adds a bit of balance, and that’s something coaches and analysts love.
His calm under pressure and smart positioning have led directly to those weekly honors. For the latest on his accolades, ESPN is your go-to.
International and National Team Impact
Teenage Hadebe isn’t just doing it for club—he’s a cornerstone for Zimbabwe’s defense, bringing years of international experience to the table.
Zimbabwe National Team Career
Hadebe made his senior debut for Zimbabwe in his early 20s. Since then, he’s become one of their most trusted defenders.
He’s got over 30 caps and a couple of crucial international goals. On the field, Hadebe’s known for tough tackling, leadership, and steady play against Africa’s best.
National team coaches count on him for big qualifiers and tournaments. He usually lines up at center back, holding things down in the middle.
Here’s a quick look at his Zimbabwe stats:
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 31+ |
| Goals | 2 |
| Debut Year | 2014 |
Africa Cup of Nations and Qualifiers
Hadebe has featured in several Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, facing off against powerhouses like Egypt and Nigeria.
He’s been a difference-maker in qualifiers, shutting down top strikers and clearing danger from the box. When he’s fit, he plays every minute—reliability and stamina are his calling cards.
During those tough qualification runs, he’s led Zimbabwe’s back line in clearances and blocks. His experience in those battles comes in handy when the pressure’s on at club level.
Zimbabwe’s fortunes often ride on defense, and Hadebe’s been at the heart of their strategies lately.
COSAFA Cup Participation
The COSAFA Cup is a big deal for southern Africa, and Hadebe has represented Zimbabwe there multiple times.
Every year, his defensive discipline and ability to organize the team stand out. Coaches often assign him to mark the opponent’s top forward—a real sign of trust.
His efforts have helped Zimbabwe go deep in the tournament and even lift the trophy in recent years. That leadership and consistency have made him one of southern Africa’s most respected defenders.
Notable Matches and Opponents
Hadebe’s steady presence on the backline has caught plenty of eyes, both in MLS and on the international stage.
His knack for adapting to top scorers and delivering in big moments sets him apart, whether it’s league play or international duty.
MLS and Major League Opponents
When Hadebe joined FC Cincinnati, he wasted no time making his mark—taking on the league’s top forwards right away.
He played big minutes against the LA Galaxy, using his marking and aerial skills to keep things tight at the back. He also featured against CF Montréal, especially in tough games at Stade Saputo.
Facing dynamic MLS attacks, he showed real composure under pressure. Fans who grabbed tickets through places like Vivid Seats have seen some great moments from Hadebe.
Here’s a peek at his MLS 2025 stats:
| Opponent | Date | Minutes Played | Key Actions |
|---|---|---|---|
| LA Galaxy | 04/15/25 | 90 | 5 clearances |
| CF Montréal | 05/31/25 | 87 | 1 block, 2 tackles |
| Columbus Crew | 06/07/25 | 90 | 3 interceptions |
International Competition Highlights
Alright, let’s talk international play—Hadebe’s got a resume that really stands out. He’s anchored Zimbabwe’s defense in World Cup qualifiers and the Africa Cup of Nations, and honestly, you can tell he takes pride in that role.
Just recently, Hadebe went the distance in a full match against Cameroon. He showed off that defensive consistency we’ve come to expect.
When he’s out there on the international stage, he faces some of the world’s top attackers. That’s no small task, but he usually holds his own and gives as good as he gets.
You know, this kind of experience really pays off. It keeps him calm when things get tense back in MLS action.
Fans who track his international games watch closely—friendlies, qualifiers, you name it. They love seeing how his form overseas carries over to his play in the U.S.
This blend of international and domestic action? It’s built his reputation as a rock-solid, versatile defender on both sides of the globe.
