The finalists for this year’s Ethiopian Cup have officially been decided following two dramatic and high-stakes semifinal clashes in Addis Ababa. Wolwalo Adigrat University and Sidama Bunna emerged victorious after tense penalty shootouts to secure their places in the grand finale.
Wolwalo Make History in Penalty Thriller
The semifinal action began with a fiercely contested northern derby between Wolwalo Adigrat University and Mekele 70 Enderta at Addis Ababa Stadium. With passionate supporters creating an electric atmosphere in the stands, the match itself remained tightly balanced throughout the 90 minutes.
Neither side managed to find the breakthrough, forcing the game directly into a penalty shootout after a goalless draw.
What followed was a marathon of nerves and drama. A remarkable 18 penalties were taken before Wolwalo eventually edged out Mekele 70 Enderta 7-6 to seal a historic victory.
The result sends Wolwalo to the Ethiopian Cup final for the first time in the club’s history.
Sidama Bunna Reach Back-to-Back Finals
The second semifinal, relocated to Abebe Bikila Stadium due to Eid al-Adha scheduling, saw Sidama Bunna take on Ethiopia Medin in another thrilling encounter.
Backed by a huge traveling support, Sidama Bunna made a bright start and took the lead in the 22nd minute through Mesfin Tafesse. Ethiopia Medin responded strongly, however, with Amanuel Erbo scoring twice to turn the match around and put his side on the verge of qualification.
Just when Medin appeared set for victory, Sidama Bunna were awarded a late penalty deep into stoppage time. Yared Bayeh calmly converted from the spot to level the score at 2-2 and force another penalty shootout.
Sidama Bunna held their composure from the spot to win the shootout 4-3, securing a second consecutive Ethiopian Cup final appearance while keeping their hopes of a historic domestic double alive.
Yared Kasaye Issues Public Apology
The semifinal was also overshadowed by controversy involving Ethiopia Medin midfielder Yared Kasaye.
During the first half, Yared was substituted for Remedan Yesuf and reacted angrily by removing his jersey and throwing it to the ground, an act widely viewed as disrespectful toward veteran head coach Gebremedhin Haile and the club.
Following widespread criticism, Yared contacted Soccer Ethiopia to publicly apologize for his actions.
“I am deeply sorry for what I did in the heat of the moment. It was unacceptable behavior on my part. I want to apologize to my coach Gebremedhin, my teammates, the club management, and the entire sports community. I am truly remorseful for my actions.”
Disciplinary Measures
Following the semifinal incidents, several disciplinary decisions have reportedly been issued by the tournament organizers.
Sources close to Soccer Ethiopia indicate that Yared Kasaye has been fined 10,000 Birr for unsportsmanlike conduct following his reaction to being substituted.
Sidama Bunna are also facing fines after reports that some of the club’s traveling supporters damaged stadium seats during the post-match celebrations at Abebe Bikila Stadium. The organizing committee has ruled that the club will be responsible for covering the replacement costs of the damaged property.
What Is at Stake in the Final?
The Ethiopian Cup final is expected to take place in mid-July. Beyond lifting domestic silverware, the winner will also secure qualification for next season’s CAF Confederation Cup.
Sidama Bunna are additionally chasing a historic domestic double, as they currently lead the Ethiopian Premier League standings.
Interestingly, if Sidama Bunna clinch the Ethiopian Premier League title before the Ethiopian Cup final is played, Wolwalo Adigrat University would automatically qualify for the CAF Confederation Cup regardless of the final result.
