Football
Kevin Teya, Special to ESPN 5y

Migne calls on Kenya fans ahead of Ethiopia rematch

Sebastian Migne has called on Kenya fans to turn out in their droves when the Harambee Stars host Ethiopia in their fourth Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Sunday, having taken a point from the Walias on Wednesday.

Despite being outplayed for large swathes of their contest at the Bahir Dar Stadium, Kenya move up to four points and take charge of Group F as the race for the 2019 AFCON hots up.

After three matches, Kenya top the pool, level on points with Ethiopia, and one ahead of Ghana and Sierra Leone, whose double-header has been cancelled amidst internal strife in the SLFA.

Speaking after the Stars' draw, Kenya coach Migne has called on the home supporters to back the East Africans to the hilt at the 60,000-seater Moi International Sports Centre when the two sides clash again at the weekend.

"I want to have a full stadium next Sunday," he told journalists after the match [as per Capital FM]. "I love to play in such an atmosphere.

"Ethiopia did well, the fans were amazing and it's a good environment for the team."

Migne also expressed regret for his team's profligacy in front of goal in Wednesday's clash, and believes the emphatic Ethiopian support gave the hosts the edge.

"We missed some good opportunities in the first half and after that it was difficult, especially when playing against 12 players," he continued. "I'm not talking about the referee, I am speaking about Ethiopia fans.

"The atmosphere was amazing."

Migne may had to do without left-back Abud Omar for the return match, after the defender was withdrawn due to injury soon after the pause.

"We did make some changes in the second half," Migne continued. "After the injury to my left-back, it was difficult on his flank, and with the fans and the quality of the opponent, I think we deserved a draw.

"Maybe each team deserved a penalty from the game, but it was balanced," he concluded. "We should try and win at home in four days, it will be like a final."

Kenya haven't reached the AFCON since 2004, when they fell at the first hurdle in Tunisia.

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