The Ethiopian national team secured their place in the group stage qualifiers with a 1-0 victory over São Tomé and Príncipe in the second leg at Diredawa Stadium completing a dominant 4-0 aggregate win.
Playing in front of their home supporters for the first time since September 2021 Ethiopia took control from the opening minutes and dominated possession while putting their opponents under early pressure. Their breakthrough came in the 7th minute when Mesfin Tafesse weaved past defenders and delivered a precise low cross into the box where Chernet Gugsa calmly finished to give Ethiopia the lead.
São Tomé responded with intent and nearly found an equalizer in the 15th minute but goalkeeper Abubeker Nura produced a crucial save to deny them from close range.
Ethiopia continued to threaten as Abel Yalew tried from a set piece in the 25th minute while Chernet came close to doubling the lead soon after but was denied by the goalkeeper.
The second half saw a more balanced contest with both sides creating chances. A notable opportunity came in the 60th minute when Mesfin Tafesse again created from the wing but the chance went unfinished. São Tomé focused on defensive organization and looked to exploit counterattacks. They came close with attempts in the 65th and 66th minutes which narrowly missed the target. After making substitutions they created another dangerous chance in the 70th minute but Abubeker Nura was once again equal to it.
Ethiopia held firm to secure a 1-0 win on the day and a comprehensive 4-0 aggregate victory.
With this result Ethiopia officially advance to the AFCON 2027 group stage qualifiers.
