Aseged Tesfaye


Aseged Tesfaye was a former Ethiopian professional footballer who played as a forward on numerous Ethiopian football clubs and the Ethiopian National football team.

Early life

Tesfaye was born and raised in the city of Dire Dawa in the eastern part of Ethiopia. He started his footballing career with the likes of local football clubs Saint Michael, Cotton FC, and Dire Dawa Coca-Cola. He later moved to the capital, Addis Ababa, in 1986 to continue his footballing career with Saint George.

Club career

Tesfaye was a revered forward, widely considered one of the best Ethiopia has ever produced. He was known for perfecting the role of a false nine.

Dire Dawa Coca-Cola

He started his career with his home town side Dire Dawa Coca-Cola in the 1980s.

Saint George S.C.

Saint George was the first team Tesfaye joined after he came from Dire Dawa to Addis Ababa. Tesfaye initially started on the B team of Saint George before shortly working his way into the senior side.

Ethiopia Insurance F.C.

His success continued with his move to Ethiopia Insurance F.C. playing some of his best football during his time with the club.

Ethiopian Coffee S.C.

While at the club Tesfaye is remembered for becoming the first player to score five goals in a single CAF club championship match. This he achieved against Seychelles side St. Michel United FC in the CAF Champions League, a record which holds to date. He retired at this club.

National Team

Tesfaye played for the Ethiopian National Football Team for over a decade, mostly during the 1990s.

Death

After playing a pick-up game with friends, Tesfaye was found collapsed in the shower and rushed to the hospital where he was later pronounced dead. Later it was revealed that Tesfaye, age 46, died as a result of a heart attack. His funeral took place on June 5, 2017 at Sahlitemihret Church in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.