Awassa Kenema Soars as Mekelle Kenema Stumbles Deeper into Crisis

In a match that showcased the stark contrast between ambition and despair, Awassa Kenema triumphed over Mekelle Kenema with a decisive 3-1 victory on November 3, 2025. This clash not only highlighted the current form of both teams but also underscored the growing chasm in their fortunes as the Premier League season unfolds.

A Tale of Two Teams

Entering this match, Mekelle Kenema was already grappling with a dismal start to the season, sitting at the bottom of the table with just one point from four matches. Their recent form had been troubling, with three losses and a draw in their last five outings. The pressure was palpable, and the stakes were high. Meanwhile, Awassa Kenema, buoyed by a recent win against Welayta Dicha, was looking to solidify their position in the upper echelons of the league standings.

The match began with Awassa asserting their dominance early on. They capitalized on Mekelle's defensive frailties, which have been evident throughout the season. In fact, Mekelle has struggled to maintain possession, averaging just 42% in their last five matches, a statistic that reflects their inability to control the game. This trend continued as they found themselves chasing shadows against a more organized and confident Awassa side.

The first goal came from Awassa's prolific forward, who has been in fine form lately. His strike not only set the tone for the match but also marked his third goal in two games, showcasing his ability to find the net when it matters most. As if to underline their attacking prowess, Awassa doubled their lead shortly after, leaving Mekelle reeling.

Despite being down, Mekelle Kenema managed to pull one back through a well-timed effort from their forward, who had been one of the few bright spots in an otherwise bleak season. This momentary spark provided a glimmer of hope for the home fans, but it was short-lived. The defensive lapses that have plagued Mekelle all season resurfaced, allowing Awassa to restore their two-goal cushion before halftime.

The Turning Point

As the second half unfolded, it became clear that Mekelle's struggles were not merely tactical but deeply rooted in confidence. They had shown flashes of attacking intent but lacked the clinical edge needed to convert opportunities into goals. Their xG (expected goals) for this match was a mere 1.2, indicating that while they created chances, they failed to capitalize effectively.

In contrast, Awassa Kenema's efficiency was striking. They finished the match with an xG of 2.8, illustrating their ability to convert chances into goals. This efficiency has been a hallmark of their recent performances, and it was evident that they were playing with a swagger that Mekelle could only dream of at this point.

As the final whistle blew, the scoreboard reflected not just a defeat for Mekelle Kenema, but a stark reminder of their current plight. With only one point from four matches, they are left searching for answers as they prepare for their next encounter against Welayta Dicha. The pressure is mounting, and the need for a turnaround has never been more urgent.

For Awassa Kenema, this victory is a significant step towards solidifying their place among the league's contenders. With nine points from four matches and a growing sense of momentum, they are poised to challenge for higher honors this season.

Reflecting on my pre-match predictions, I must admit I underestimated Awassa's ability to capitalize on Mekelle's vulnerabilities. The gulf in class was evident today, and if Mekelle hopes to salvage their season, they must address their defensive issues and find a way to harness the attacking potential that occasionally flickers through their play.

As both teams look ahead to their next fixtures, one thing is clear: football is often about momentum, and right now, Awassa Kenema is riding high while Mekelle Kenema finds themselves in desperate need of a lifeline.