Ethiopian Medhin launched their 2025/26 CAF Champions League campaign in style, recording a commanding 2-0 victory over Zanzibar’s Mlandege in the first qualifying round at the Abebe Bikila Stadium.
From the opening whistle, Medhin took command, dominating possession and creating numerous attacking opportunities. Mlandege, playing away from home, focused on a tight defensive formation, hoping to absorb the pressure and prevent an early goal. However, Medhin’s persistent efforts paid off in the 24th minute. Following a brilliant passing sequence that started from their own half, Wegene Gezahegn delivered a superb cross from the left flank, which Emanuel Erbo met with a powerful header, finding the back of the net and giving his team a deserved lead.
The second half began just as the first had ended, with Medhin maintaining their superiority. Their relentless attack led to a second goal in the 58th minute. This time, Wegene Gezahegn crossed the ball from the right side. The substitute, Biruk Mulugeta, who came on for the injured Emanuel Erbo, capitalized on a moment of defensive lapse from Mlandege. He calmly controlled the ball and slotted it home, doubling Medhin’s advantage.
Mlandege had a few scattered attempts toward the end of the match, but they were unable to mount a serious threat. Despite a scary collision between goal-scorer Emanuel Erbo and the Mlandege goalkeeper Ubwa Barro, which required both players to be taken to the hospital for treatment, Medhin held strong. The victory marks a successful debut for Ethiopian Medhin in the African Champions League, with goals from Emanuel Erbo and Biruk Mulugeta sealing the 2-0 win.
