APA-Addis Ababa (Ethiopia) The Ethiopian national football team- the Walia Ibex have failed to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire following a goalless draw with Malawi.
Ethiopia played host to Malawi on Tuesday at the Estadio do Zimpeto Stadium in Mozambique’s capital Maputo, with both the Walia Ibex and the Flames desperately needing a win to keep their hopes alive.
They were tied in Group D, with three points apiece, with a chance to overhaul second-placed Guinea. Egypt had already secured their place in a top spot of the group with 12 points.
The Malawian side started the match with determination, creating several scoring opportunities against Ethiopia.
However, their efforts were repeatedly thwarted by a resolute Ethiopian defense. Despite dominating possession and launching relentless attacks, Malawi struggled to find the breakthrough they desperately needed.
During halftime, Malawi coach Patrick Mabedi made tactical twick, with three attacking changes. But it was Ethiopia that were the much improved side after the restart, and created their first clear chance in the 55th minute.
Binyam Belay played a superb cross from the left to pick out the unmarked Kanaan Markneh, but the latter’s shot from close range was clawed away by Malawi goalkeeper Brighton Munthali.
The Walia Ibex threatened again with just less than 20 minutes of regulation time to play, as substitute attacker Yusuf Tarekgen drove into the penalty area and fired a shot on target, but Munthali made a comfortable save.
MG/APA