Hawassa City and Ethiopian Insurance Share the Points in 1-1 Draw

Hawassa City and Ethiopian Insurance played out a 1-1 draw in the Ethiopian Premier League on October 17, 2026, with both sides scoring in a hard-fought contest at Hawassa City Stadium. The result left each team with a point after an evening of fine margins and contrasting approaches.

Match overview

Hawassa City began with more energy and looked to impose themselves through quick passing in midfield. Ethiopian Insurance absorbed the early pressure and grew into the game as the first half progressed, using direct runs and counterattacks to test the home defence. The match opened up after the interval, and both goalkeepers were called into action during a lively final half-hour.

Key moments

Hawassa City took the lead in the 34th minute when Bereket Wolde pounced on a loose ball inside the penalty area and finished with composure. The hosts threatened to double their advantage before the break, but Ethiopian Insurance stayed within touching distance.

The equaliser arrived in the 61st minute through Surafel Tesfaye, who capped a swift counterattack with a well-placed shot beyond the goalkeeper. Both teams pushed for a winner late on, but resolute defending and some sharp goalkeeping kept the score level.

Tactical story

Hawassa City enjoyed more possession and tried to create overloads down the wings, while Ethiopian Insurance sat deeper and looked to strike in transition. The visitors’ equaliser came from exactly that strategy, catching Hawassa City with too many players committed forward. In the final stages, Hawassa City returned to a more patient build-up, but Ethiopian Insurance defended their box well and limited clear chances.

Standout performers

• Bereket Wolde was Hawassa City’s most dangerous attacker and took his goal confidently.
• Surafel Tesfaye changed the game for Ethiopian Insurance with a composed equaliser.
• Both goalkeepers made important saves in the closing minutes to ensure the draw.

What the result means

The draw adds a point to both clubs’ tallies in the Ethiopian Premier League standings, though each will feel the match offered an opportunity for more. Hawassa City showed attacking promise but will want to be more ruthless when ahead, while Ethiopian Insurance can take encouragement from a disciplined away performance. The 1-1 result keeps the teams focused on consistency as the league schedule moves forward.