Ethiopia is one of the founding members of the Africa Cup of Nations tournament having played their first international match in 1947 against the then French Somaliland.
The East Africans also took part in the inaugural Afcon in 1957 when they finished second. That tournament was hosted by Sudan and featured three teams– the hosts, Egypt and Ethiopia.
The tournament was meant to be a four-nation event, with South Africa due to play Ethiopia in the semi-final but the former was disqualified due to apartheid policies prevailing in the country at the time.
Only two games were played in the first edition. Ethiopia got a bye and played Egypt in the final – losing 4-0. Since then the tournament has expanded to a 16-nation African showpiece.
Despite laying a crucial role in the formation of the Africa Cup of Nations, Ethiopia have never qualified for any World Cup tournament.
"This is a match full of history because both Ethiopia and South Africa were part of the four countries that formed the Afcon tournament. We were expelled from international football due to apartheid and never got to play in the inaugural tournament.
“We are also mindful of the fact that Ethiopia are yet to qualify for the World Cup and as a result this match will have an added significance," said Safa President Kirsten Nematandani.
Since re-admission into international football in 1992, South Africa have participated in several Nations Cups and won one, which they hosted in 1996. Bafana have also appeared in three World Cups since re-admission.
Nematandani believes the experience of playing such prestigious tournaments will stand Bafana in good stead in their quest for another World Cup appearance.
"We know they are playing at home but we have strong focus and the determination to do well. Bafana is not about individuals but team work – and only teams win championships. The players need to do it for themselves and for the country because it means so much for them.
“These boys are on the verge of history in that in the current squad we have players who were part of the last World Cup in 2010, so for them to play in successive World Cups will be a major feat in their lifetime."
South Africa hosted Ethiopia on June 3, 2012 with the match ending in a 1-1 draw in Phokeng.
The return leg takes place on June 16 – Youth Day in South Africa, a significant day in the history of the country.
"Thirty seven (37) years ago, none of the current Bafana players were around when many people lost their lives in the struggle to liberate our country. What a coincidence that this match takes place on this special day.
"And when they go into battle against Ethiopia the boys must remember those souls that passed on in pursuit of freedom for our country. That is the significance our boys need to remember that it is not just about the World Cup qualifier, but is also about the pride of this country and our liberation," said Nematandani.
"The good thing about the day is that the whole country will be focusing on this match and also remembering the past, so what a way to wipe their tears off with a victory to say those who went before did not die in vain."
Ethiopia qualified for the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations tournament in South Africa after an absence of 31 years.