Kenya head coach Engin Firat has delivered a sobering message to to the country’s football fans, urging the nation to confront the harsh realities that have kept the national team from reaching its true potential.
The Turkish international’s comments come after the Harambee Stars’ hopes of qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco were dashed following a disappointing final matchday in South Africa.
Kenya’s 2-1 loss to South Africa at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium, coupled with Cameroon’s victory over Zimbabwe, sealed the Stars’ fate, leaving them third in Group J with just five points.
The defeat marked the end of the team’s pursuit of a spot in the prestigious continental tournament.
Following the elimination, Firat didn’t mince words, the Turkish delivered a blunt assessment of football in the East African country.
“Kenyans must stop dreaming of playing in continental tournaments until fundamental problems within the sport are addressed.
“Until the issues are resolved, we’re just pursuing a mirage.
“My repeated calls for change point to a systemic issue within Kenyan football. The lack of adequate infrastructure and limited investment in youth development all contribute to the team’s struggles.
“Dreams are only realised when the foundations are strong.”
