Ethiopia vs Malawi

Ethiopia claimed a narrow but well-managed 1-0 victory over Malawi in an international friendly at Dire Dawa Stadium on June 6, with a first-half goal proving enough to seal three points on home soil. Fitsum Tilahun was the difference-maker for the hosts, finding the net in the 21st minute after pouncing on defensive disorganization from a corner kick. Ethiopia held their shape and defended resolutely for the rest of the contest. The match stayed clean throughout, no red cards, no penalties, a disciplined if low-key affair. Ethiopia carry genuine momentum now, having also put four past São Tomé and Príncipe in their previous outing. Malawi head home with more questions than answers after a flat performance, adding to a difficult stretch that already included a draw with Zambia's U-23 side and a loss to Botswana.