DC United co-owner clarifies squad selection in 3–0 loss to Ethiopia

DC United co-owner Eyob Joe Mamo said that the club decided who to field during a 3–0 loss to the Ethiopian National Team on August 2nd.

DC United played with largely academy players and lost to the African nation at Audi Field Stadium.

Goals from Canaan Markneh, Dawa Hotessa, and Ramadan Youssuf handed the Waliyas a rare exhibition match victory, as the Ethiopian Football Federation (EFF) pocketed $50,000 USD in winning bonuses. Nonetheless, there was growing concern over the friendly game after DC United fielded youth team players.

The advertisement before the game suggested Ethiopia would play against DC United’s first team, but only six members of the squad had MLS experience. The likes of Christian Benteke, Matti Peltola, and Boris Enow were not present during the match.

The Ethiopian-born American business tycoon stated that it was the full right of the head coach to decide who to play. “That was the decision of the coach. This was not decided by the board or the management.

He planned to win the game with the players he used. The opposition also does not have the right to decide who should play. So the coach selected players, and Ethiopia won the match.”

Mamo hinted at a discussion with senior top-level management of DC United over concerns raised by supporters of the Ethiopian national side. The EFF had previously stated that the aim of the exhibition game was strictly business-oriented and intended to give exposure to players.

According to the EFF, Canaan Markneh, Ramkel James, Biniyam Belay, and Habtamu Tekeste have been offered trial opportunities at DC United and USL side Loudoun United.