ADDIS ABABA: Ethiopian fans are again excited and hopeful ahead of the country's opening African Cup of Nations (CAN) clash against Zambia. The match comes after last year's dramatic qualification by the East African country that had fans pour onto the streets in celebration. “We are really excited and are ready for more success. It is all about how we play and if we play well, I think we can do well in the tournament,” one shopkeeper told Bikyanews.com on Sunday ahead of the Zambia clash. The match is unlikely to be an easy one, considering Zambia is out to defend their surprise title won two years ago. They have the makings of a solid team able to repeat, but they are not looking past spirited Ethiopia in the opener. The Chipolopolo were surprise winners in Equatorial Guinea and Gabon in 2012, beating Ghana and Cote d'Ivoire in what was a fully-deserved maiden tournament victory for the Southern African side. The skepticism over their chances has been built on patchy form since their victory in the continental showpiece, though tellingly perhaps they did manage a 1-0 win against South Africa in a friendly in November, a rare home defeat for Bafana Bafana against African opposition. For Ethiopia and their fans, the chance to compete and show their resurgence in African football couldn't come against a stronger side. Fans are already gathering around their televisions in anticipation of the match, which they hope will be the beginning of a wonderful tournament. “If we can show strength on the ball, I feel we can go far,” the shopkeeper added. Bikyanews.com
