Playing Top Nations Will Make Harambee Stars Competitive: Firat Insists

Harambee Stars Coach Engin Firat has emphasized the need to play more high-profile friendlies to remain competitive.

Ian Muyumba Ian Muyumba
Mar 30, 2023 - 19:50 Updated: Apr 10, 2024 - 15:38
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Playing Top Nations Will Make Harambee Stars Competitive: Firat Insists
Harambee Stars coach, Engin Firat. /FILE

Coach Engin Firat on Thursday, March 30 insisted on the need to play even more high-profile friendly matches as the Harambee Stars gear up for a return to CECAFA, CAF and FIFA competitions.

This came on the back of Kenya’s 2-1 loss to Iran in an international friendly match played on Tuesday, March 28, 2022, in Tehran.

The coach termed the match a start of a rebuilding process as he sought time to build a team in time for a return to international competitions next year.

“Playing against a strong team like Iran is difficult. We were unlucky to lose but at the end of the day, everyone should understand that we are looking to achieve long-term results and not short-term gains,” said Firat.

Harambee Stars players during a past training session. /FILE

According to the coach, such friendlies not only test his players’ abilities under pressure but also expose the players to top-level football.

He, in the meantime, heaped praise on debutants Daniel Anyembe and Alfred Scriven saying: “They gave a good account of themselves, but need time to adapt as it is their first time with the squad. I am happy with how the other players welcomed them but they need time to develop and adapt before being incorporated in the starting team,” said the Harambee Stars coach.

“The door is always open to any player who deserves to play for the national team,” he added.

The Harambee Stars jetted back on Thursday, March 30, 2023. Their next assignment is in June when more friendly matches have been lined up.

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