January 22, (THEWILL) – Libya, former winners of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN), registered their first win at the ongoing tournament in Algeria when they saw off Ethiopia 3-1 in Annaba on Saturday.
The Mediterranean Knights, who had already been eliminated from the competition after two losses, leapfrogged the Walia Ibex to finish third in Group A. Despite trailing, Libya bounced back in the game with an equaliser when Ali Arqoub found the back of the net five minutes after Ethiopia took the lead through a penalty.
In the second half, Libya approached the game with more urgency, attacking relentlessly. They were rewarded five minutes after the break, as Abdulati Abbasi punished the Ethiopians for a miscommunication on the defensive line to give Libya the lead.
Wubetu Abate’s side sought an equaliser thereafter but were wasteful in front of goal for the most part. Their confidence continued to wane and, in the 78th minute, Mohamed Saltou found the back of the net to make sure it was game over for Ethiopia.
They were shuttered and visibly looked distraught, but they did not give up completely even though Libya held on to win 3-1 and exited the competition alongside Ethiopia.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
