By Administrator,

Ethiopia’s coach Mariano Barreto has suffered a major setback after it became apparent Sweden based defender Walid Atta will not be able to make it for the important and crucial Africa cup of nations qualifers against Algeria that has been scheduled for September 7th in Addis Ababa.

Speaking exclusively to Soka25east.com Walid was injured in a training  match was saddened by the new turn of events which he described as very unfortunate.

“I was more than ready and looking forward to travel to Ethiopia for the game against Algeria but the unexpected happened when i got injured and probably will be out for between 2  weeks to recover from the Calf injury that will make it difficult for me to travel to Ethiopia.My dream have always to play for Ethiopia and when things were looking certain the injury cropped up”Walid told Soka25east.com

“However such incidences are expected by any footballer and i would like to take this opportunity to wish my fellow Ethiopian team mates and the technical bench led by coach Mariano Barreto all the best against Algeria and i promise to be back once fully healed and fit to also connect with the passionate Ethiopian fans”he added

Asked on his thoughts about the game against Algeria and Ethiopia chances Walid was forthright “Ethiopia  have good chance to beat them(Algeria)at  home in Addis where we have our fantastic fans…we need to work hard together and be discipline and I believe that we can win”he added

Walid Atta currently plays for BK Hacken in the Swedish League.Ethiopia play Algeria next week in Afcon group matches at the National Stadium in Addis Ababa.

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