As Ethiopia continues its preparations for the upcoming football World Cup qualifiers, the team remains undeterred despite being seen as underdogs, particularly against football powerhouse Nigeria, according to a recent Africa Top Sports Poll. Sewnet Bishaw, the coach of the Ethiopian national team, expressed confidence and belief in a potential surprise from his squad.
In an interview with the official website of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Bishaw stated, “We have never reached the final phase of a World Cup, and I believe that it is the time for Ethiopia to secure a place for this great world event. We managed to reach this decisive stage of the playoffs, and I believe that on Sunday, we will have no other option than to win.”
Despite facing the formidable Nigerian team, Bishaw acknowledged the challenges but emphasized his team’s determination to make history. He mentioned that Ethiopia will be without striker Getaneh Kebede due to injury, but he remains optimistic about other players stepping up.
Bishaw recognizes Nigeria as one of Africa’s footballing giants, having participated in multiple World Cups, but he emphasized that the results are determined on the pitch within 90 minutes. He highlighted Ethiopia’s recent achievements on the continent, expressing the need to confirm their growing reputation.
The coach acknowledged Nigeria’s victory over Ethiopia in the group stage of the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations, but he believes that circumstances have changed since then. Ethiopia faces Nigeria with the aim of securing a spot in the World Cup, showcasing their determination and ambition to compete at the highest level of international football.
