Ethiopia produced a dramatic comeback on Wednesday to overturn a first-leg deficit against Uganda and secure a place in the second round of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
After losing 2-0 in the first leg, the Ethiopian side responded with a 2-0 victory in the return fixture before triumphing 5-4 on penalties in front of their home crowd.
Ethiopia fights back after first-leg setback
Needing to overturn a two-goal deficit, Ethiopia started the match aggressively, pressing Uganda high up the pitch.
The Crested Cranes, who had the advantage from the first leg, struggled to contain Ethiopia’s relentless attacks but managed to keep the hosts at bay in the first half, thanks in part to some crucial saves from their goalkeeper.
However, Ethiopia’s persistence paid off in the 60th minute when Aregash Kalsa broke the deadlock, breathing life into the home side’s comeback hopes.
With momentum shifting in their favor, Ethiopia continued to push forward, and their efforts were rewarded deep into stoppage time.
Ethiopia lead!#ETHUGA 1-0 | #WAFCON2026Q#HomeOfUgandanSport pic.twitter.com/MbBNIYDe09
— FUFA Tv (@fufatv1) February 26, 2025
In the 95th minute, Etsegenet Girma struck the decisive second goal, leveling the aggregate score at 2-2 and forcing the match into a penalty shootout.
Nail-biting penalty shootout secures Ethiopian victory
With both teams now facing a tense shootout, the atmosphere inside the stadium was electric.
The first two penalty takers from each side converted their shots, keeping the contest level.
However, Uganda’s third shooter struck the right post, giving Ethiopia an opportunity to take control.
Despite Ethiopia also missing one of their spot-kicks, the decisive moment came when the Ethiopian goalkeeper, who had already made key saves during the match, denied Uganda’s final penalty attempt.
Ethiopia held their nerve to claim a 5-4 victory, sparking wild celebrations from the home supporters.
Looking ahead to the second round
With this dramatic comeback, Ethiopia now advances to the second round of the qualifiers, where they will face the winner of the tie between Equatorial Guinea and Tanzania.
Ethiopia scores a second.#ETHUGA 1-0 | #WAFCON2026Q#HomeOfUgandanSport pic.twitter.com/P0LaC3efTs
— FUFA Tv (@fufatv1) February 26, 2025
The Ethiopian squad will take confidence from their resilience and fighting spirit, knowing they can compete at a high level under pressure.
For Uganda, the elimination marks a disappointing end to their campaign after initially holding a strong advantage.
The Cranes will reflect on their missed opportunity as Ethiopia continues their journey towards AFCON 2026 in Morocco.
