AFCON 2027 Qualifiers: Ethiopia advance to next round with 4-0 aggregate win over Sao Tome and Principe

Ethiopia have booked their place in the next stage of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers after an emphatic 4-0 aggregate victory over Sao Tome and Principe.

Drawn against Sao Tome in the preliminary round, Ethiopia set the tone with a commanding 3-0 win in the first leg last week, sending a clear message about their intent.

In the return leg today, the Ethiopian side laboured slightly but managed to secure a 1-0 victory at home, completing a dominant overall performance and confirming their progression.

The only goal of the match came early, in the 7th minute, when Chernet Gugsa fired home a precise finish following a well-timed assist from Mesfin Tafesse. The strike set the tone for the rest of the match, allowing Ethiopia to control possession and dictate play while managing the game effectively.

Ethiopia’s progression highlights their growing strength and tactical discipline in African football. While today’s match required patience, the team’s defensive organisation and ability to capitalise on key moments ensured that they emerged unscathed.

For Sao Tome and Principe, the tie underscored the gulf in quality and experience between the sides. Despite showing determination, they were unable to breach Ethiopia’s defense or create clear-cut chances, and the 4-0 aggregate loss ends their qualifying journey for the 2027 AFCON at the preliminary stage.

Looking ahead, Ethiopia will aim to build on this solid performance as they prepare for the next round of qualifiers.

With momentum on their side and confidence boosted by a clean-sheet double over Sao Tome, the East African side will hope to carry their form into tougher challenges in the journey toward the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.