Hadebe backs Vries for ‘must win’ clash
KAIZER Chiefs defender Teenage Hadebe, pictured, is convinced that their 3-1 defeat to Zesco United FC in the first leg of the Caf Confederation Cup group stage qualifiers was a lesson which will help them prevail when the two teams meet in the return leg at FNB Stadium today (8pm kick-off).
Chiefs trail the Zambian giants by two goals, but their away strike was vital as they now need at least two goals and a clean sheet to advance to the group stage round.
“For me, playing in Africa is easy because I am used to it with the Zimbabwean national team,” Hadebe said.
“The last time, (Siphosakhe) Ntiya-ntiya was asked what is it like to play in Africa, he said, ‘Ah Bra, let’s just go and play but (I think) it’s tough’.
“Sometimes referees are also not fair because the last time there, they disallowed us a clear goal.
“But I am sure everyone has gained confidence and are used to playing in Africa now. So we have to go win and advance to the group stages.”
Chiefs’ primary concern is keeping clean sheets.
In four matches this year, they’ve only kept one, while conceding seven goals in the other three matches.
Furthermore, the loss of first-choice goalkeeper and club captain Itumeleng Khune to a long-term injury has made it easier for the Amakhosi faithful to criticise their defensive loopholes.
Stand-in keeper Virgil Vries didn’t make it any easier for himself either, as he cost the team three points in his first real test at the club, against Mamelodi Sundowns.
Vries looked to have resurrected himself in the next game against Bidvest Wits as he kept a clean sheet, but that was easier said than done as he conceded five goals in the next two games.
“I am sure that Virgil is a good goalkeeper because he is the one that’s communicating at the back,” Hadebe said as he backed Vries to find his feet at the club.
“I know that some of the people are starting to blame Virgil (for the mistakes) but he’s a good goalkeeper because how he performed against Black Leopards (in the Telkom Knockout) was outstanding).
“But people have forgotten that, and they are starting to complain, but that’s how football is. Top goalkeepers make mistakes as well, no one is perfect.”
On a personal note, Hadebe is starting to enjoy his football under the guidance of new coach Ernst Middendorp.
In domestic football alone, the Bulawayo-born footballer has made three appearances in Middendorp’s four-match stint so far.
Although it might be too early to tell, his recent rise has been a pinch of inspiration, especially in the star-studded central defensive position that also has Eric Mathoho, Daniel Cardoso, Lorenzo Gordinho, Mario Booysens and Ramahlwe Mphahlele.
“As a player, it’s good to compete. In order to be the best, you have to work hard and face challenges,” he said.
“At training, we are exactly doing that; everyone is working hard and giving their best.
“(We always) wish that may the best man play s on the pitch because we are not jealous of who’s playing as we continue to support each other very well.”