Ethiopian torchbearers Kidus Giorgis tackles Congo Republic outfit AC Leopards in the CAF Champions League first round second leg clash this afternoon in Addis Ababa. The 2012 CAF Confederation Cup champions AC Leoprads face elimination from the continent’s biggest clubs football competitions.
‘The Horsemen’ as they are nicknamed have beaten the Dolisie side 1-0 courtesy goal from Menetesnote Adane a week ago and hopes to complete the double over their opponents on Sunday. The record Ethiopian champions has been preparing strongly since they returned from Congo on Tuesday having registered a much needed away triumph. It has been a joyful week for the club as club president Abente Gebremeskel received the CAF Golden of Merit accolade from the then CAF president Issa Hayatou during the 39th CAF General Assembly on Thursday and inaugurated the first of its kind youth football academy named after great African football administrator Yidnekatchew Tessema on Tuesday in Bishofutu.
Mart Nooji’s charges hopes to become the first Ethiopian side to ever progress to the CAF Champions League group stages. Ugandan international Robert Odongkara has returned to training on Saturday following his absence in the last two training sessions. Midfielder Tesfaye Alebachew has also resumed training. The Dolisie hero Menetesnote is not available due to suspension as Ivorian import Bruno Kone replaced him in the squad.
AC Leopards had a taste of the Addis Ababa Stadium pith on Saturday afternoon. Veteran Zambian striker Winston Kalengo is doubt for ‘Les Fauves de Niari’ after sustaining a leg injury. The ex Zesco United forward is a doubt for Leopards ahead of the decisive duel. AC Leopards trainer Roger Alie Nusiyetea told Soccer Ethiopia that his side will expect a positive outcome from the second leg. “We find Kidus Giorgis technically, physically and tactically very organized. We did not expect them to be like this; although since it is an away game we have prepared on the best possible way. Hence, it will not be an easy ride for both clubs.”
The tie is slated to kick off at 16:00 EAT.
