Ethiopia battled back to secure a 1-1 draw against Ghana in an 2022 FIFA World Cup Qualifier played at Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg on Thursday.
It seemed a lively opening was on the cards following an energetic start from in particular Ethiopia through Shemeles Bekele, who picked out Asrat Tunjo in the box but the defender was unable to make proper contact.
Ghana looked to go wide and deliver balls into the six-yard area with Mohamed Kudus amongst others central in this regard, but Ethiopia held ground albeit temporarily.
This particular invention from the Black Stars reaped benefits in the 22th minute of the half when Adre Ayew made a set piece count with a wonderful goal.
Ethiopia came to life again shortly thereafter and threatened a second from a delivery across the face of goal after a nice passing move, but Mesud Musa missed target.
Uncertainty in the Black Stars’s defence later on had Dawa Hutessa clear, but Iddrisu Baba’s goal-line clearance saved the day before Jordan Ayew missed a one-on-one at the other end.
More positive spells followed the Walia Ibex in the 67th minute, as Kebedde dragged a cutback from Bekele narrowly past the bottom-corner.
Ethiopia still plucked away following the remaining 15 minutes and were all square through former Bidvest Wits and University of Pretoria striker Getaneh Kebede.
Both sides had chances for the winner late on through Hutessa and Kebede for Ethipia followed by Mubarak Wakaso for the away side, but it ended 1-1 for Ghana who will need a miracle if they are to qualify to the next round of the qualifiers.
