The Ethiopian national team were left stunned in Gaborone as Botswana rallied to beat the Waliyas 2-0 in independence day friendly game. The friendly tie was organized by the government of Botswana in celebration of the 51st year anniversary of the Southern Africa nation independence from British rule.
Veteran striker Jermoe Ramatlhakwane scored in each half as Botswana secured a 2-0 win over Ethiopia. The hosts made a positive start as Ramatlhakwane broke the deadlock barely two minutes following the kickoff through a penalty kick. The Township Rollers forward doubled the lead after the recess yet again converting a second spot kick.
Ethiopia coach Ashenafi Bekele has requested the Ethiopian Football Federation to resign from his post, a role which he held since March, a month ago. Nonetheless, the Federation turned out the request. Waliyas failed to qualify for CHAN 2018 last month losing to Sudan before locking horn against Botswana in a friendly game.
This is how the Waliyas line-up
Lealem Birhanu
Abdulkerim Mohammed, Asechalew Tamene, Anteneh Tsefaye, Desta Yohannis
Mulualem Mesfin, Menetesnote Adane
Gadisa Mebrate, Abdelrahman Mubarak, Dawa Hotessa
Getaneh Kebede (C)
