Ethiopia v. Somalia

On Wednesday evening Mark and I went with a small group of friends to see the national soccer game between Somalia and Ethiopia.  These two countries do not like each other at all. A history of war and land disputes lead to the most intense and volatile soccer game I've really ever heard of.  We sat safely in what's considered the Executive Section where tickets ran 100birr a piece (roughly $5.50 USD). Standard tickets were 5birr.  The game was a lot of fun and we had a great time.  I was able to capture a few pictures of the scene.  We were seated on the very first row, so unfortunately the fence appears in most of the shots, but you can still get the idea.

The band takes the field.

Outside of the stadium.

Somalia has some beautiful fans! Check out their handmade dresses! 

See! We're alive!

Pre-game lineup.  Play nice, guys.

Ethiopian National Guards showing their support!

The free t-shirt I walked away with compliments of the Somali Ambassador.

In the end, Ethiopia won 5-0.  Our cab driver last night informed us that he saw us in a group for "Ferengis" (white foreigners) on TV during the game.

Last night we went to a Mediterranean restaurant, Serenade, that was delicious.  It's certainly one of the nicest places to dine in Addis.  Our favorites were saffron ice cream and tilapia with capers.  Around 2PM today we are headed to Lake Langano for a weekend camping trip with friends from the Embassy. The Lake rests about 3.5 hours outside of Addis and is apparently quite beautiful.  I won't be in touch again until Monday but will be sure to update everyone as soon as possible.