Host Ethiopia would want to put aside the 1-0 shock loss to Rwanda in their opening group “A” match last weekend and steady their ship in the on going 2015 Cecafa Senior Challenge when they face Somalia today (Wednesday 25) in Awassa.
With Tanzania already through to the group of eight after recording their second win yesterday where they beat Rwanda 2-1, any other result but a win for Walia Ibex today could complicate their chances of progression having in mind that their last groups match will be against Tanzania who is yet to lose a match.
Coach Johannes Saleh is a man under pressure to impress before the home crowd and with his future at the helm uncertain, every match for him is like a final.
The soft spoken tactician has lately come under heavy criticism over what many view as poor fielding of players, and all eyes will be on him as he lines up against Somalia.
A win will put them on equal terms with Rwanda on three points a piece heading into the last groups matches.
Kenya Vs Burundi
A win for either side will see progression to quarters. The two sides are on three points each having won their opening group “B” games.
Kenya recorded an emphatic 2-0 win over fancied Uganda on Sunday while Burundi were 1-0 victors against Zanzibar a day earlier.
Burundi’s influencial captain Karim Nizigiyimana will be facing his teammates at Gor Mahia who also turn out for Kenya in a potentially explosive encounter in Awassa. It will interesting to see him mark Harambee Stars dangerman Michael Olunga whom he assisted a good number of his goals at club level.
Malawi Vs Djibouti
Guests Malawi beat Sudan 2-1 in their first match and another win today will guarantee them a place in the quarters.
The group “C” match will be played at Bahir Dar Stadium.
South Sudan Vs Sudan
In another group “C” match at Bahir Dar, history will be made when South Sudan – the youngest member of CECAFA lock horns with Sudan for the first time since the South gained independence from the main Sudan.
The Bright Stars won 2-0 against Djibouti an impressive result they can draw inspiration from ahead of the big clash.
Sudan on the other side were beaten 2-1 by Malawi and they will be seeking to overcome the set back.
@bonfaceosano
