Ethiopia faces squad shortage ahead of DC United exhibition clash

The Ethiopia national side’s travel arrangements to the United States for a friendly game against Major League Soccer side DC United has hit a major obstacle after eight players and assistant coach Temesgen Dana were denied entry visas. The US Embassy in Addis Ababa rejected their applications as the friendly game set for August 2nd fast approaches.

Seven players were granted entry visas, and eight players already had valid visas. In total, 15 players are ready to play against DC United as the Ethiopian Football Federation (EFF) explores other options to strengthen the squad. Coach Mesay Teferi had summoned 23 players at the start of the week for preparations. Ethiopian Insurance duo Mohamed Abera and Wogene Gezaghen, Mechal midfielder Abdulkerim Worku and striker Ahmed Hussien are among those denied visas.

The eight players have already left the national team camp. The EFF and Coach Teferi will need to select additional players or face DC United with the remaining squad. A recent change in the United States’ visa policy toward Ethiopia may have contributed to the rejected applications.

The EFF and DC United agreed to a partnership for a friendly game in June 2025. Under the agreement, the EFF will benefit from participation fees and winning bonuses. The match is scheduled for August 2 at Audi Field Stadium. Tickets are already on sale, with a large turnout expected from the large Ethiopian diaspora in the Washington, D.C. area.