Yep. I also got caught out with Etihad as they wouldnt let me do the advanced check in the night before. I had to wait till much nearer the actual flight before I could check in and then I had to present my credit card. Like I said, I had booked with Etihad directly.
Note. They werent very helpful when I phoned them about not being able to do the advanced check in the evening before.
