Teenage Hadebe scored a fine goal as Zimbabwe beat Zambia 1-0 in a free-flowing friendly in Harare.

Hadebe netted a glancing header in second half for the Warriors who used the match as part of preparation for upcoming African Cup of Nations.

In an open contest, Pfumbidzayi nearly gifted the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations champions an early opener, as his poor clearance was hastily turned into a chance for Nkana’s Ronald Kapamba. However,Mukuvura made amends by blocking Kapamba’s powerful strike from the edge of the area.

Pasuwa men responded with interest in the second half, largely through the efforts of Mpelele.The Hwange man won the ball in midfield, played a one-two with Tsipa, before landing a cross with Hadebe stretching his neck for a glancing header for his first ever international goal.

While Zimbabwe played some attractive football in the final third, Zambia looked dangerous on the counter. This was on display when Marco Urena forced Mukuvura into a save at his near post after out-pacing Hadebe midway through the first stanza.

Warriors nearly doubled their lead in the 68th minute, but Tsipa’s weak shot was kept out by Zambia goalie following a beautiful touch in the box by Madanhanga.

At the other end, the lively Daka flashed a menacing strike on the turn narrowly wide of Hadebe’s goal around the hour-mark.

Daka threatened again in the 76th minute as his attempt from an acute angle was turned away by Mukuvura.

Chipolopolo continued to press in the dying minutes but Warriors held firm,defending well frustrating the Zambia.

Zimbabwe XI: Mukuruva, Pfumbidzayi, Hadebe, Mhlanga, Zvirekwi, Madanhanga, Kutinyu, Mpelele, Gaki, Tsipa, Manondo