Sewnet Bishaw was quick to praise opposite number Stephen Keshi but insists his side were denied clear penalty shouts before Victor Moses scored his spot-kick.
Ethiopia coach Sewnet Bishaw criticised the performance of the referee in their 2-0 World Cup play-off second-leg loss to Nigeria on Saturday.
Victor Moses set the African giants on their way from the spot after a controversial penalty was awarded by match official Bakary Gassama for an unintentional hand-ball from Aynalem Hailu.
Saladin Said then had a notable penalty appeal turned down in the second half, although Bishaw feels the tide had already been turned by the award of Moses’ spot-kick.
“I respect [Nigeria boss Stephen] Keshi; he has done a good job organising this team,” the 61-year-old told reporters.
“But the ref cheated us. We had two penalties denied us. And then he awarded one wrong one to Nigeria.
“That penalty to Nigeria affected the tide.”
A free kick from Victor Obinna settled matters in Calabar and ensured the Africa Cup of Nations champions will enter the draw for the World Cup group stage on December 6 with a 4-1 aggregate win.