The Ethiopian Football Federation have laid their hopes on the completion of Bahir Dar Stadium to host future national team matches. The stadium hosted continental and international qualifying games and the 2021 CECAFA U-23 Championship games. The Waliyas have a good record at the stadium as EFF eyes to begin holding matches at the venue in September 2025.
Located in Bahir Dar city, EFF plans for the Waliyas to play their home games on it. Speaking about the matter, EFF secretary general Bahiru Tilahun said the Federation have been assisting efforts to complete construction and renovation for the stadium. "We are suffering with long travel and costs incurred. So we need a solution to it. There have been activities by the government to complete stadium construction. Bahir Dar Stadium for now is the ideal one. A CAF expert gave us the necessary recommendations and we are advising the government in every aspect."
Tilahun stated former Confederation of African Football Club Licensing Officer Muhammad F. Sidat traveled across the country to access the current situation of stadiums in Ethiopia. "We showed a couple of stadiums to Mr. Sidat after he opened up his own consultancy. Jimma, Addis Ababa, Bahir Dar stadiums are the ones that we showed Sidat so that he can give us feedback. I can't disclose what the details are for now."
Ethiopia's chances of retuning home after years of playing abroad could become a reality this September 2025. Tilahun is also hopeful. "Hopefully we will play in Bahirdar. They gave us a five month timeline for the stadium completion."
Ethiopia last played an international game at home in 2021 when they lost 3-1 to South Africa in the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Bahirdar Stadium.
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