The Ethiopian national team today has begun preparation for the African Nations Championship (CHAN) due in Rwanda from January 16 – February 6.
The team had its first training session this afternoon. Coach Yohannes Sahle has summoned a provisional squad of 30 players a week ago. Sidama Bunna goalie Lealem Birhanu and Dedebit’s front man Dawit Fikadu pulled out of the squad owing to injury. Sahle opted to call Dashen Bira custodian Dereje Alemu in place of the injured Lealem Birhanu. Kidus Giorgis defender Asechalew Tamene and Dedebit goalkeeper Tarike Getnet failed to train today.
Only 25 players participated in today’s training session. Tamene sustained a minor injury and it is stated that he needs at least 3 days to recover. Adama Kenema center back Moges Tadesse and Dedebit right back Seyoum Tesfaye failed to show up for the first training because of unknown reason.
The team will continue its preparation tomorrow at Addis Ababa Stadium. Coach Sahle will announce his last 23 men squad on the coming Tuesday. The former Dedebit coach is adamant in his decision not to include any other players. The coach confirmed he won’t be summoning any other players to the provisional squad.
Coach Sahle will give a presser tomorrow in Intercontinental Addis regarding the current affairs of the Walias.
