Firat: Kenya must face reality after AFCON disappointment
Harambee Stars head coach Engin Firat has admitted Kenya’s 1-1 draw with Zimbabwe, which ended their hopes of qualifying for AFCON 2025, was a bitter blow but not unexpected. Speaking after the match in South Africa, Firat highlighted Kenya’s recurring goal-scoring struggles and called for a reality check on the state of football in the country.
Kenya’s hopes of qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 came to an end following a 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe in South Africa. The result left Harambee Stars head coach Engin Firat reflecting on missed opportunities and unfulfilled promises.
Speaking after the match at the Peter Mokaba Stadium, Firat acknowledged the disappointment but said the outcome was not unexpected.
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“The game unfolded as we anticipated,” the 54-year-old coach said. “Zimbabwe stayed deep and relied on long balls to their fast attackers during counterattacks. Both teams fought hard, but we failed to convert our chances, and injuries, like the one to Joseph Okumu, also hurt us.”
Firat was candid about Kenya’s persistent struggles in front of goal. “It’s clear we have a goal-scoring problem that needs to be addressed if we’re to reach a higher level. I wish we had solved this earlier, but unfortunately, we couldn’t.”
Despite the elimination, Firat defended his players’ efforts. “The boys gave everything until the final whistle. They deserved more from the game, but football doesn’t always reward effort.”
On the frustration back home, Firat said he understood the fans’ anger. “We wanted to qualify, and I know how disappointing this is for the nation. But I can’t fault the players; they gave their best.”
He also urged for a reality check regarding the state of Kenyan football. “We need to stop dreaming and look at what we have. I’ve spoken about the challenges in our football many times, and things are not improving. Our history in this tournament tells the story.”
Kenya’s failure to qualify for AFCON 2025 extends the team’s absence from the competition since 2019, leaving Firat’s tenure under increasing scrutiny.
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