World Cup Qualifying: Ethiopia faces Egypt in Cairo amid Renaissance Dam unveiling

Ethiopian Football Federation secretary general Bahiru Tilahun says the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying clash against Group A leaders Egypt has special meaning for the federation. The Waliyas will face the Pharaohs at the Cairo International Stadium on Friday, September 5.

The game between the two nations will be played as the East African nation nears the unveiling of the Great Ethiopian Renaissance Dam on the River Nile this September. The construction of the dam has created tension between the two countries. Tilahun, in a press conference held at the EFF headquarters, stated that the encounter comes at a significant period.

“This game is very meaningful for the EFF and the people of Ethiopia. We are in a historic time, with the unveiling of the Renaissance Dam and the naming of Nigat Lake around the corner. So, for the EFF and the people of Ethiopia, we give this tie very special focus. We want our national side to give everything in this game. That is why we started preparation early for this match.”

The controversy surrounding the dam between Ethiopia and Egypt is yet to be resolved. Egypt beat Ethiopia 2-0 when the two nations played in Morocco in March during their first Group A clash. Ethiopia are fourth in the group with six points, while Egypt have their eyes on qualifying for the World Cup for the first time since 2018.

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