Ethiopia vs Tanzania – Ethiopia and Tanzania face off in a crucial AFCON 2025 Qualifier at Stade des Martyrs de la Pentecôte. Both teams are desperate to secure points in Group F, with Ethiopia sitting at the bottom with just one point and Tanzania in third place with four. This Ethiopia vs Tanzania match is pivotal for both sides, as their hopes of reaching Morocco 2025 hang in the balance.
Ethiopia vs Tanzania Kick-Off
- Date: Saturday, November 18, 2024
- Venue: Stade des Martyrs de la Pentecôte
- Kick-off Time: 18:00 CAT
- Broadcast: SABC Sport, SABC Plus
Previous Head-to-Head
Historically, Ethiopia has had the upper hand in this matchup, with two wins and two draws in their last four encounters. The most recent meeting, held in September during this qualification campaign, ended in a goalless draw. Tanzania has yet to register a victory against Ethiopia, a stat they’ll aim to change in this pivotal clash.
Recent Form
- Ethiopia: DLLL (AFCON Qualifiers)
Ethiopia’s form in this qualification series has been poor. After drawing 0-0 with Tanzania in their opener, they suffered consecutive defeats: 2-0 to Congo DR and back-to-back heavy losses to Guinea, 4-1 and 3-0. The Walia Ibex are winless in their last nine competitive matches, managing just four draws and five losses. - Tanzania: DWLL (AFCON Qualifiers)
Tanzania started their campaign well, drawing with Ethiopia and beating Guinea 2-1. However, two defeats to Congo DR in last month’s double-header dented their hopes. Despite these setbacks, the Taifa Stars have shown promise, especially in earlier fixtures where they maintained a five-match unbeaten run, including three wins and two draws.
Players to Lookout For
- Ethiopia: The absence of Kenean Markneh and Abel Yalew puts the spotlight on Chernet Gugsa. As Ethiopia’s main attacking threat, his creativity and goal-scoring ability will be key.
- Tanzania: Feisal Salum and Mudathiri Yahya, who have both scored in this qualification series, will be central to Tanzania’s plans. Captain Mbwana Samatta is another player to watch, with his experience and leadership often proving invaluable.
Current Injuries
- Ethiopia: Kenean Markneh and Abel Yalew are sidelined, leaving Ethiopia short on attacking options.
- Tanzania: First-choice goalkeeper Ally Salim is unavailable, giving Zuberi Foba an opportunity to make his mark between the posts.
Betting Odds
| Outcome | Odds |
|---|---|
| Ethiopia Win | 2.50 |
| Draw | 2.90 |
| Tanzania Win | 2.80 |
| Over 2.5 Goals | 3.40 |
| Under 2.5 Goals | 1.60 |
| Both Teams to Score – Yes | 2.10 |
| Both Teams to Score – No | 1.70 |
| Ethiopia to Score First | 2.20 |
| Tanzania to Score First | 2.30 |
| No Goals Scored | 8.00 |
The odds suggest a close contest, with a low-scoring affair expected given the teams’ struggles in front of goal.
Betting Tips
- Double Chance: Ethiopia or Draw
- Total Goals: Under 2.5
- First Team to Score: Tanzania
Ethiopia vs Tanzania Prediction Breakdown
Ethiopia will rely on their home advantage and historical dominance over Tanzania. However, their lack of attacking firepower could hinder their chances. Tanzania, on the other hand, has shown resilience in past matches and will aim to exploit Ethiopia’s defensive vulnerabilities.
Predicted Starting Lineups
- Ethiopia (4-2-3-1): Habtamu; Hamid, James, Kasa, Berhane; Panom, Demissie; Gugsa, Nasir, Tafesse; Tafesse
- Tanzania (4-3-3): Foba; Husseini, Bacca, Job, Mwaikenda; Yahya, Salum, Bitegeko; Kibu, Samatta, Mzize
Conclusion
This match is a must-win for both teams to keep their AFCON dreams alive. Ethiopia needs a victory to stay in contention, while Tanzania must capitalize on Congo DR and Guinea’s concurrent fixture to boost their qualification chances. A tightly contested draw seems the most likely outcome.
Prediction: Ethiopia 1-1 Tanzania
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