What Kenya must do in Afcon battle

And as a result, the federation has lost all its membership rights with its national teams and affiliated clubs no longer entitled to take part in international competitions until the suspension is lifted.

Sierra Leone, who are level on three points with all the other three Group F opponents after two matches, were expected to face Ghana in next week’s back to back qualifiers before battling with Kenya in Nairobi on November 16.

The Leone Stars beat Kenya 2-1 in the opening fixture before falling by a solitary goal away to Ethiopia last month.

This means, the Walya Antelopes lose their three points as Sierra Leone foregoes the remaining fixtures in the newly composed three team group.

The top two teams in the group will automatically qualify for next year’s finals in Cameroon.

“This also means that neither the SLFA nor any of its members or officials may benefit from any development programmes, courses or training from Fifa or CAF.

“Moreover, and in accordance with art. 16 par. 3 of the Fifa Statutes, other member associations may not entertain sporting contact with the SLFA during its suspension,” read part of the statement from Fifa. Following the latest development, Sebastiene Migné’s side needs at least four points from the remaining three matches to make a return to the continental showpiece, they last featured in 2004.

A win and a draw against the Ethiopians in the two-legged fixture on October 10 and October 14 in Bahir Dar and Nairobi respectively, will secure a continental ticket for Kenya with a game to spare.

“It is not something to celebrate, but as far as I am concerned we now have destiny in our own hands.

“We need to put our act together, offer all the necessary support to the team and ensure they get the deserved results.

“Four points in the remaining three matches are achievable,” Football Kenya Federation president Nick Mwendwa told The Standard Sports.

The first batch of the national team, composed of five local-based players and Migné departed for Addis Ababa yesterday morning ahead of Wednesday’s first leg tie against Ethiopia at Bahir Dar Stadium.

“Of course it won’t be easy against Ethiopia since they are also equally strong, but my players are up to the task and I am confident we will get a positive result,” said Migné moments before departure.

The second batch will travel tomorrow morning, with foreign-based players also set to link up with the team in Bahir Dar on the same day.

Kenya can take an outright lead in the group if they can avoid defeat in Ethiopia on Wednesday.