Denden FC have successfully defended the Eritrean Super Division title after clinching the 2024/25 title.
The army side won this season’s title after overcoming arch-rivals Red Sea FC in the final playoffs of the top flight.
The fierce encounter ended goalless in regulation time, but Denden held their nerve in the penalty shootout, edging Red Sea 5-4 to claim back-to-back titles.
The victory not only cements Denden’s status as the top club in the country but also sees Red Sea fall short of the championship yet again, extending their title drought.
In the third-place decider, Al Tahrir defeated Asmara Brewery 2-1 in a spirited contest. Hermon Gebregiorgis opened the scoring for Al Tahrir, only for Misgena Alem to level for the brewery-backed side before halftime. However, Gebregiorgis struck again late in the second half to secure a hard-fought win and a podium finish.
The Eritrean National Football Federation rewarded the champions with 100,000 Nakfa (approximately $6,657 USD). Runners-up Red Sea received 75,000 Nakfa ($5,000 USD), while third-placed Al Tahrir took home 50,000 Nakfa ($3,333 USD).
Individual accolades also went Denden’s way. Head coach Samsom Habtemikael was named Best Coach of the Season, while Nahom Tadesse earned the Most Valuable Player award. Romel Abdu, Denden’s prolific striker, claimed the Golden Boot after finishing the season with 13 goals.
Denden FC will hope for more success next season. Sources have revealed that the club will try to sign new players to strengthen their squad in the off-season.
