The Ethiopian Football Federation (EFF) is poised to record a substantial financial boost from ticket sales following a high-stakes 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier, despite the Ethiopia national team—affectionately known as the Walias—falling to a narrow 1-0 defeat against powerhouse Senegal.
The Group J encounter marked a historic milestone for regional sports infrastructure, as the 52,000-seater Bahir Dar International Stadium finally reopened its doors for continental fixtures. The venue had previously spent five years under a CAF continental hosting ban after being deemed unfit for international matches. However, following extensive modernization efforts, the stadium was granted a temporary CAF Category 3 accreditation, allowing it to host its first major international tie in half a decade.
Local football enthusiasts turned out in droves, packing the stadium to the brim. According to figures released by the EFF, approximately 43,000 tickets were officially sold through online channels and four dedicated physical selling points around Bahir Dar. Thousands of additional supporters managed to squeeze into the venue during a massive surge in the final minutes before kick-off, creating an electric atmosphere that echoed throughout the city. Official Ethiopia national team jerseys were also in high demand, flying off the shelves as fans rushed to deck themselves out in national colors prior to the match.
On the pitch, the home side put up a valiant fight against a formidable Senegalese squad. The decisive moment arrived early in the 11th minute when Ibrahim Mbaye found the back of the net with a clinical finish, securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory for the visitors. Although the final whistle left local fans disappointed with the scoreline, the overwhelming turnout underscored the deep-seated passion for the national team and proved that regional centers can successfully host high-profile fixtures.
Buoyed by the financial success and the vibrant atmosphere, the EFF is already looking ahead. Federation officials hope to retain Bahir Dar as the home base for Ethiopia’s upcoming AFCON qualifier against Mozambique. Ongoing infrastructure refurbishments are slated for full completion by January 2027, which will feature a newly installed protective shade surrounding the stadium. With modern amenities now fully operational—including four upgraded dressing rooms, advanced media and press boxes, commentary booths, VVIP lounges, and an on-site gym—the stadium is positioning itself to be a cornerstone venue for Ethiopian football.
