Harambee Stars head coach Engin Firat has expressed concerns over the physical standards of local players following Kenya’s goalless draw against African champions Ivory Coast in a 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier held at the Bingu National Stadium on Tuesday afternoon.
The stalemate marked the first instance of the Elephants dropping points in Group F, though they maintain their top position with 10 points from four matches. Kenya, with five points, currently holds the third spot but faces the possibility of dropping lower depending on the outcomes of other matches later in the day.
In his post-match interview, Firat underscored the physical disparity between his players and their more robust Ivorian counterparts, a concern he has been vocal about for some time. “The physical difference was evident today,” Firat noted. “Our players need to be more competitive physically to match up with top-tier teams.”
This concern is not new; Firat had previously addressed this issue in March during an appearance on TV47. He urged local players to seek opportunities in top leagues outside Kenya to enhance their skills and contribute more competitively to the national team. “Playing in more competitive leagues abroad will help our players develop the necessary physical and technical skills,” Firat had stated.
Kenya’s preparation for the match was hampered by the absence of several key players due to injuries. Striker Masoud Juma and defenders Dennis Nganga, Eric “Marcelo” Ouma, and Joseph Okumu were sidelined, compelling Firat to depend heavily on local talent. This reliance brought to light the coach’s concerns about the physical preparedness of players in the Kenyan league.
Adding to the challenges, the Harambee Stars had to relocate their matches to Malawi following the closure of all major stadiums in Kenya by the government for renovations. The lack of FIFA-approved venues in Kenya forced the team to adapt to playing away from home, further complicating their World Cup qualifying campaign.
Despite the hurdles, Firat remains hopeful and focused on the future. “We have the potential, but there’s a lot of work to be done,” he concluded. “Improving our local league standards and getting our players more exposure to international football is crucial.”
The Harambee Stars will need to regroup and address these challenges as they continue their quest for a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The road ahead is demanding, but with strategic planning and development, Kenya aims to elevate its football standards and compete more fiercely on the global stage.
