Ethiopian Premier League: Arbaminch stuns Ethiopian Coffee as title race tilts toward Insurance

Ethiopian Coffee’s title hopes were dealt a huge blow after suffering a 1-0 defeat to Arbaminch Ketema in their Ethiopian Premier League Round 33 game played at Adama Science and Technology Stadium. With only three games left for Coffee, Ethiopian Insurance are now in pole position to be crowned champions of Ethiopia if they can beat Saint George tomorrow.

The league’s sole television rights holder, SuperSport, returned to showcasing the top flight on Monday with two matches aired for viewers. A resilient Arbaminch Ketema side shocked Ethiopian Coffee as the Browns’ 14-year title drought continues, with Ethiopian Insurance now very close to the trophy. Butaka Shemena’s first-half header was the difference between the two sides.

The Crocodiles could have doubled their lead in the second half but Ahmed Hussien’s spot-kick was well saved by Ghanaian keeper Danlad Ibrahim. Arbaminch custodian Idrissa Ogodjo was instrumental in keeping a clean sheet for the southern Ethiopian side.

Ethiopian Coffee are still second with 55 points, eight behind table toppers Insurance. Arbaminch Ketema are pushing for league safety as they climbed to eighth with 42 points.

Elsewhere, Adama Ketema humbled Bahirdar Ketema 2-0. Biniam Ayten was man of the match after his brilliant display. The Adama Ketema youth team product gave his side the lead in the first half after the Waves of Tana defenders were caught napping. He then went on to assist the second goal, scored by Muse Kiros at the death.

Adama Ketema are still in the relegation zone, sitting 15th with 35 points. Bahirdar are third with 48 points.

League Table (Top-5)