

Sidama Bunna 2-2 Ethiopian Insurance | Ethiopia Cup | 26 May 2026
Sidama Bunna and Ethiopian Insurance played out an entertaining 2-2 draw in the Ethiopia Cup on 26 May 2026, a match that kept both sides in contention for progression in the knockout competition. The game at Hawassa International Stadium saw lead changes, fightbacks, and no shortage of drama.
Match Overview
From the start, both teams showed attacking intent in a cup tie that carried significant stakes. Sidama Bunna, playing in front of their home crowd, took the game to Ethiopian Insurance early, but the visitors responded with quick counter-attacks and resilient defending. The draw leaves the second-leg tie wide open ahead of the return fixture.
Key Moments
- Early breakthrough for Sidama Bunna: The home side took the lead in the 12th minute when a well-worked move down the right flank ended with a low cross that was turned in at the near post.
- Ethiopian Insurance equalise: The visitors hit back just before halftime. A free kick from a dangerous position was headed home by a towering centre-back to make it 1-1.
- Insurance takes the lead: Early in the second half, Ethiopian Insurance stunned the home crowd by going 2-1 up. A swift counter-attack saw the winger cut inside and curl a shot into the far corner.
- Sidama Bunna rescue a point: With 15 minutes remaining, the hosts pressed hard and earned a penalty. The captain stepped up and calmly sent the keeper the wrong way to level the score at 2-2.
Tactical Story
Sidama Bunna attempted to dominate possession and use width, while Ethiopian Insurance relied on a compact defensive block and rapid transitions. The second half saw the game open up as both sides pushed for a winner, leading to end-to-end action but no further goals. Set pieces proved decisive for both teams, with two of the four goals coming from dead-ball situations.
Standout Players
- Sidama Bunna captain: Composed penalty under pressure and solid leadership in midfield.
- Ethiopian Insurance centre-back: Scored the equaliser with a powerful header and was dominant in aerial duels.
- Insurance winger: His goal was a moment of individual brilliance, cutting in from the left to score.
Table and Season Impact
In the Ethiopia Cup, every result counts in the knockout rounds. The 2-2 draw means that Ethiopian Insurance will feel confident heading home, having secured an away goal advantage. Sidama Bunna, however, will take heart from their late fightback. The return leg looks set to be equally competitive as both teams chase a place in the next round of the competition.