Ethiopia have moved to within touching distance of the third round of Central-East Zone qualifiers for the 2018 African Nations Championship (CHAN) after they defeated hosts Djibouti 5-1 on Saturday.

The Wayla Antelopes’ victory at the El Hadj Hassan Gouled Aptidon Stadium in Djibouti City has all but confirmed that they will progress into the final phase of qualification and face Burundi (who advanced automatically after Sudan’s disqualification).

Getaneh Kebede opened the scoring late in the first half to put Ethiopia 1-0 up, while the second half saw the visitors add a further four goals – with only one in reply from Djibouti.

The return leg will be held at the Hawassa International Stadium in Ethiopia next weekend.

Collins Okinyo

Ex- CAF Media Expert. An expert on African football with over 15 years experience ,always with an ear to the ground with indepth knowledge of the game. I have worked for top publications including 7 years at www.supersport.com until i founded www.soka25east.com to quench the thirst of football lovers across the continent. I have trained young upcoming journalists who are now a voice in African football.I have covered World Cup,AFCON,CHAN,Champions League,Confederations Cup,Cecafa,Cosafa,Wafu and many other football tournaments across the World. Founder Football Africa Arena(FAA),Founder www.afrisportdigital.com