Hosts Ethiopia face Eritrea in CECAFA U-23 Challenge Cup kick-off

The CECAFA U-23 Challenge Cup kicks-off this afternoon with hosts Ethiopia facing Eritrea in a Pool B match at the Bahir Dar Stadium.

Although the two teams were meant to clash on Sunday, the match was moved to Saturday following changes in the fixture.

“We are happy that finally the regional tournament is set to kick off here in Ethiopia. We thank all the nine teams that will take part in this tournament and we are hoping to witness a good and competitive tournament,” said Auka Gecheo, the CECAFA Executive Director.

Ethiopia’s head coach Webetu Abate has made it clear that they will be determined to start the tournament with a good result. “It is always good to start such a tournament with a win. But we shall not underrate Eritrea because we know they are a good team,” added Abate.

Eritrea’s captain Robel Teklemichael also made it clear they do not fear facing Ethiopia. “Facing Ethiopia is just like any ordinary match. There is nothing special, only that they are playing at home,” said Teklemichael who captained Eritrea to third place in the 2019 CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup held in Uganda.

According to the revised draw Uganda will be in action against guest side Democratic Republic of Congo in the first match on July 18th, before Djibouti battle Kenya in the second game.

Burundi will play their first game on July 20th against Eritrea. A total of 17 matches will be played in the regional tournament which will climax on July 30th.

Pool A: Uganda, Tanzania, DR Congo
Pool B: Ethiopia, Burundi, Eritrea
Pool C: Djibouti, South Sudan, Kenya