Mebrat Hayl vs Negelle Arsi Match Recap - Nov 7, 2025

Mebrat Hayl and Negelle Arsi Battle to a Stalemate in Dire Dawa

A goalless draw at Dire Dawa Stadium leaves Mebrat Hayl frustrated and Negelle Arsi still searching for answers. The match, played on November 7, 2025, showcased the contrasting fortunes of both teams, with Mebrat Hayl sitting comfortably in second place while Negelle languishes in the relegation zone.

Mebrat Hayl entered the match with a solid record of three wins and a draw in their last four fixtures, including a recent victory over Ethiopia Bunna. Their confidence was palpable, but they struggled to convert that momentum into goals against a resolute Negelle defense. Despite dominating possession, Mebrat could not find the back of the net, reflecting a surprising dip in their attacking efficiency. The standout players from their recent matches, like Shewalem and Hussien, who had been instrumental in previous victories, found themselves stifled by Negelle's organized backline.

Negelle Arsi, on the other hand, came into this match with two draws and two losses in their last four games, desperately seeking to turn their season around. They had yet to secure a win and were under immense pressure to perform. The absence of a consistent goal scorer has haunted them throughout the season, and this match was no different. Their recent form suggested they would struggle against Mebrat's attacking prowess, yet they managed to hold firm. The defensive efforts of players like Dubale, who had previously shown flashes of brilliance, were crucial in keeping Mebrat at bay.

The first half saw Mebrat controlling the game but failing to capitalize on their chances. They registered several attempts on goal but lacked the clinical edge that had defined their earlier performances. The midfield, led by Asresahegn, struggled to connect with the forwards effectively, leading to a frustrating stalemate as the teams went into halftime without a score.

Negelle's strategy revolved around absorbing pressure and looking for counter-attacking opportunities. While they managed to disrupt Mebrat's rhythm, their own attacking efforts were lackluster. The team's inability to create clear-cut chances highlighted their ongoing struggles this season. Even with moments of promise, they could not find the spark needed to break the deadlock.

As the second half unfolded, Mebrat intensified their efforts, pushing forward in search of a breakthrough. Yet, despite their best efforts, they were met with a wall of resistance from Negelle. The visitors' goalkeeper made several key saves, showcasing resilience that had been missing in previous outings. This performance could serve as a turning point for Negelle, who desperately needed a display of grit and determination.

The match ended without goals, leaving Mebrat Hayl with a sense of disappointment after failing to extend their unbeaten run. They remain second in the league but will need to reassess their attacking strategy ahead of their next match against Bahardar. For Negelle Arsi, the draw may feel like a small victory amidst a challenging season. They still sit in 15th place but can take some solace from a hard-fought point that could provide a foundation for future performances.

Reflecting on my pre-match prediction, I anticipated Mebrat's attacking prowess would overwhelm Negelle's defense. Instead, it was the latter's resilience that shone through. This result underscores the unpredictable nature of football; even teams struggling at the bottom can rise to the occasion when it matters most.

As both teams prepare for their upcoming fixtures-Mebrat looking to regain their scoring touch against Bahardar and Negelle hoping to build on this performance against Adama Kenema-the stakes remain high. For Mebrat Hayl, it is about maintaining momentum in pursuit of the title; for Negelle Arsi, it is about survival and finding a way out of the relegation zone. The narrative continues to unfold as each team navigates its path through this gripping season.