Engin Firat’s tenure as the head coach of Kenya’s Harambee Stars has come under scrutiny following the team’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Despite promising beginnings and bold statements, the team’s elimination from the qualifiers after a 1-1 draw with Zimbabwe has laid bare a series of shortcomings, both tactical and managerial. Firat must be held accountable for his inconsistent strategies, questionable decisions, and inability to live up to his own promises.
One of the most glaring issues under Firat’s leadership is his inconsistent narrative. After Kenya achieved notable victories, such as the 2-1 win against Namibia earlier in the campaign, Firat was quick to claim credit, portraying himself as the architect of success. He projected confidence, boasting about the team’s unbeaten run and challenging opponents like Cameroon to figure out how to beat the Harambee Stars. However, this self-assured demeanor quickly evaporated after disappointing results. Following the Zimbabwe draw, Firat deflected blame onto systemic issues, citing Kenya’s lack of facilities and broader footballing challenges.
While it is true that Kenya faces significant structural problems, including poor infrastructure and inadequate player development systems, these challenges cannot excuse Firat’s tactical errors. A leader must adapt to the resources at hand and take responsibility for their decisions. Firat’s refusal to own up to his mistakes undermines confidence in his leadership. When a coach only embraces success but distances themselves from failure, it creates a culture of excuses and deflects from areas that genuinely require improvement.
Firat’s tactical missteps have also been a recurring theme. His preference for an ever-changing lineup has disrupted team cohesion. Despite frequent calls for consistency, Firat has shuffled players across the pitch, leading to subpar performances. In key matches, such as the loss to Cameroon, he made baffling decisions, benching experienced defenders in favor of less tested players. These choices backfired, exposing the team’s defensive vulnerabilities and contributing to humiliating defeats.
The issues extended to the attacking setup as well. Against Zimbabwe, Firat deployed twin false nines in Eric Johana Omondi and Duke Abuya, a decision that left the team disjointed and toothless in the final third. Proven performers like Benson Omala, Jonah Ayunga, and John Avire, who could have offered more aggression and creativity, were left underutilized. Firat’s reluctance to trust a stable core of players has stifled the team’s ability to build momentum and develop a cohesive playing style.
Furthermore, Firat’s broken promises weigh heavily against his record. Before the qualifiers, he declared that securing a spot at AFCON 2025 was a must, framing it as a non-negotiable goal. However, as the team’s campaign faltered, Firat shifted his rhetoric, downplaying the importance of qualification and blaming external factors. This pattern of overpromising and underdelivering has eroded trust in his leadership.
Kenya’s footballing challenges are undeniable, but Firat has benefited from an environment that is slowly improving. Efforts are underway to address infrastructure issues, as demonstrated by the country’s preparations to co-host major tournaments like the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) and the 2027 AFCON. With these advancements, Firat had a foundation to build on, making his failure to deliver on the pitch even more glaring.
The Harambee Stars need a coach who not only understands the systemic hurdles but also takes ownership of their tactical and managerial responsibilities. A leader who can inspire confidence, admit to mistakes, and foster consistency is essential if Kenya is to rise to the occasion in future competitions, including the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and the co-hosted 2027 AFCON. Firat’s time to prove himself is running out. Kenya deserves a coach who can navigate challenges and lead the team with accountability and vision.
