The team’s playoff hopes hinge on Cheberko delivering dependable defending and helping drive a collective effort toward MLS Cup glory.

Cheberko has become a trusted defender for Columbus, adapting to MLS and contributing to the team’s playoff push with solid performances and leadership at the back.

Columbus Crew rely on Yevhen Cheberko to anchor a stabilized defense as they head into a pivotal MLS Cup Playoff clash with FC Cincinnati, aiming for a deep run on the back of his strong form in 2024 and 2025.

Cheberko has faced adjustment challenges moving from Europe to the United States, including language barriers, time-zone changes, and adapting to a different football culture.

In 2024 he established himself with 39 appearances and earned a Ukraine national team recall after a four-year gap, signaling his rising trajectory.

Cheberko’s career began in Ukraine, progressing from youth stints to professional breakthroughs with Dnipro and Zorya Luhansk amid an injury crisis and upheaval in clubs.

At Zorya Luhansk he transitioned from midfield/left-back to center back, a change that helped him become a trusted defender and regular starter.

In 2025 he has made 35 appearances across all competitions, reinforcing his status and earning another Ukraine call-up after the four-year interval.

Cheberko is focused on reclaiming a starting XI spot, acknowledging competition but emphasizing ongoing form and consistency.

Cheberko says Columbus and Ohio feel like home, highlighting his personal adaptation and readiness to contribute both on and off the pitch.

Recent results include a 1-0 first-leg loss to Cincinnati in the playoff series, underscoring the importance of home-field advantage and Cheberko’s role in stabilizing defense.

Since joining Columbus in 2023, Cheberko has been part of MLS Cup triumph and Leagues Cup success, while the 2024 CONCACAF run showed the team’s continental potential amid 2025 playoff pressure.