After Ethiopia's quality result against Zambia in the African Cup of Nations, hopes are high amongst my colleagues as the Black Lions face Burkina Faso in their second group match. I'm not so sure, after Burkina Faso got a good draw against the once mighty Nigerians.
Leading into the 9pm kick-off the crescendo of car horns, whoops and screams fill the city. Songs break out from the traditional to tribal football chanting.
Despite four changes from Tuesday night, Ethiopia begin the match the stronger, looking dangerous on the break and hitting the wood-work, and it's clear the audience believe it's only a matter of time before the flood-gates open.
However it's Bukina that open the scoring and complete silence descends. It's eerie.
The game become more tense as each team dares not lose possession and it becomes an increasingly dour affair. Half time is a welcome break.
In the 55th minute and Burkina have their goal-keeper sent off and the audience erupt for the first time since the opening goal. Down to 10 men, surely the Lions can take advantage? Such belief doesn't last long, as Burkina get a second and Ethiopia simply capitulate. Final whistle can't come soon enough, and it ends a humiliating 4 - 0.
To add salt to the wound, the electricity in Gerji goes out. But at least i enjoy the quietest of nights.
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