Ethiopia U17 Women Edge Burundi in CAN W-U17 Group Stage Thriller

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – May 24, 2026 – Ethiopia’s U17 women’s national team kicked off their African Nations Championship (CAN W-U17) campaign with a gritty 2-1 victory over Burundi at the National Stadium. The match, which kicked off at 20:00 local time, saw the Young Lady Antelopes overcome a stubborn Burundi side to claim crucial points in the group stage.

The first half was a cagey affair, with both teams wary of conceding early. Ethiopia controlled possession but struggled to break through Burundi’s compact defense. The breakthrough came in the 34th minute when winger Meseret Tesfaye cut inside from the left and unleashed a curling shot that beat the Burundi goalkeeper at the near post. The goal gave Ethiopia a well-deserved lead at halftime.

Second Half Drama and Resilience

Burundi emerged with renewed energy after the break, pressing higher and creating their first clear chance in the 52nd minute. Forward Diana Niyonkuru headed just over the bar. Ethiopia responded by doubling their lead in the 63rd minute through striker Selamawit Gebre, who pounced on a defensive miscommunication to tap into an empty net.

But Burundi refused to surrender. A stunning free kick from midfielder Gloria Nduwayo in the 78th minute brought the score to 2-1, setting up a tense finale. Ethiopia’s defense, led by captain Sintayehu Tilahun, weathered a late storm, including a goal-line clearance in stoppage time, to secure all three points.

Key Performances

• Meseret Tesfaye (Ethiopia): The winger’s pace and skill were a constant threat, and her opening goal set the tone.
• Selamawit Gebre (Ethiopia): Her poacher’s instinct gave Ethiopia a crucial second goal.
• Gloria Nduwayo (Burundi): The midfielder’s brilliant free kick and overall energy made her Burundi’s standout player.

Group Stage Implications

This victory puts Ethiopia in a strong position in their group, with two more matches to play. For Burundi, the narrow defeat leaves them needing positive results in their remaining fixtures. The CAN W-U17 tournament, featuring Africa’s top young female talents, continues to deliver high-intensity matches, and Ethiopia will hope to build on this momentum as they chase a spot in the knockout rounds.