The Ethiopian national team booked a spot in the group stages of Qatar 2022 African Qualifiers at the expense of Lesotho on away goal after a frustrating goalless draw in Bahirdar a few days ago.
Abraham Mebratu made few changes from the side held to a draw at home, the changes saw Remedan Nasser, Omod Okri and Mujib Qassim making ways for Desta Demu, Hayder Sherefa and Mesfine Tafesse respectively, Meanwhile, the home side only made two changes.
Chances were very far and few as a direct approach from the host made it easy for the upcoming season expected Kidus Giorgis center back partnership of Aschalew Tamene and Desta Demu, the visitors opted to play their passing football but failed to create any clear cut chance.
In a very frustrating first half, there was no attempt on goal from both sides, Meanwhile, after the restart Ethiopia struggled to maintain their passing play as the home side were very dangerous in their long balls.
On the 50th minute the outside forward Biniam Belay’s attempted cross after getting past two players led to an own goal from Nikaye Netroli.
After the opening goal the home side backed by their supporters were frequently visiting Ethiopia’s box, eventually their efforts were paid off as Sepo Strumang’s 55th-minute free-kick from close range was deflected by Mesfin Taffese for the equalizing goal.
After the equalizing goal Abraham Mebrhatu men were forced to drop off and were defending in a very low block to defend the away goal that could see them go through, to do so Abraham withdraws the creative midfielder Shimeles Bekele by Antneh Tesfaye to switch to back 5 setups.
The change in the system led to more pressure being exerted from the home side, Lesotho were creating chances but the goalie Jemal Tassew was to the rescue and also on the 85th minute the home side came close to increase the led as Nikoto Mambisie headed effort was nearly saved by the upright.
Ethiopia progressed to the next round on away goals after the first leg ended in a stalemate.
©Soccer Ethiopia
