Exclusive: Engin Fırat Admits World Cup Qualification Challenge as Kenya Coach Responds to Sack Calls

Engin Fırat believes that securing an automatic 2026 FIFA World Cup spot for Kenya ahead of reigning champions Cote d'Ivoire is an unrealistic goal.

After failing to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, the Harambee Stars have shifted their focus to securing a spot at the global tournament, set to be co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

The East Africans are determined to end their long wait for a maiden appearance, but first, they must navigate tough competition from the Elephants, Gabon, Burundi, Gambia, and Seychelles.

Currently, in Group F, the seven-time CECAFA Cup champions are ranked fourth, having earned five points from four matches so far.

CANDID INSIGHTS ON KENYA’S WORLD CUP PROSPECTS

Kenya, unbeaten in their last three World Cup qualification matches, will take on Gambia away on March 16, 2025. When questioned about his team’s prospects of securing one of Africa’s qualification spots, the 54-year-old Turkish coach offered a candid assessment of the Harambee Stars’ chances.

"First, we have the Africa Nations Championship in February, which is our immediate focus. After that we move to the World Cup qualifiers," Firat told SportsBoom.com. "Being in a group with Cote d’Ivoire, the African champions, means aiming for first place isn’t realistic.

"If I spoke differently, I’d be fooling myself. Our realistic goal is to compete for second place. Even that’s challenging against teams like Gambia and Gabon.

"But if we have all our players available and finally get to play at home—something I haven’t experienced since taking over—it could make a huge difference. Playing at home is incredibly important in African football."

The group winner will secure direct qualification for the World Cup, while the runners-up may have a chance to progress to the second round and compete in the inter-confederation play-offs to determine the last two qualifiers.

SACK CALLS STEMS FROM FKF ELECTION RIVALRIES

Firat was appointed Kenya's head coach in September, succeeding Jacob 'Ghost' Mulee. Initially signed on a two-month contract, his tenure was extended in early 2023 to a three-year deal running through 2026.

Despite his extended tenure, he seems to be on the brink of an exit after failing to secure the Stars' qualification for the 2025 AFCON, finishing third behind Cameroon and Zimbabwe.

The former Moldova coach remains unfazed by persistent calls for his dismissal, which he believes are tied to the upcoming Football Kenya Federation election.

He continued: "I'm aware that this situation which I feel is connected to the upcoming Football Kenya Federation election. "Next week marks the election for the Federation president, a crucial event given the stakes involved. The current president, who brought me here, faces significant opposition.

"Normally, only two candidates would contest such elections, but this time, nine are vying for the position, reflecting intense rivalries.

"Much of the criticism directed at me stems from these political rivalries. Some former national coaches and journalists align with opposing candidates, spreading misinformation. Despite this, I remain unfazed and continue to enjoy strong public support.

"People constantly approach me, saying, 'You’re doing an incredible job with Kenya,' and expressing surprise at Kenya’s football potential. Even when I travel outside the country, everyone is fully aware of the progress we’re making."

REASONS FOR HARAMBEE STARS RECENT STRUGGLES 

Firat holds the record for the most wins by a foreign Kenya coach and led the team to victory in the Four Nations Cup, defeating hosts Malawi in the final.

He is reluctant to boast about his achievements, but acknowledges the reasons behind his team's struggles in critical moments. "I have never approached this job for personal pride. Football's reality lies in the quality of players at your disposal. If their ability isn’t sufficient for international football, you must compensate with tactics and teamwork," added Firat.

"You can gauge your team's understanding on the field by evaluating their performance, even with limited capacity. If they consistently bring the ball into dangerous areas, create numerous goal opportunities, and maintain a high xG (expected goals), it’s a strong indicator of progress.

"Even if your team struggles to score, you may still have done an excellent job as a coach by creating opportunities and doing the groundwork. However, when it comes to finishing in front of goal, everything depends on the quality of the players.

"For instance, with a player like Osimhen, simply giving him the ball is enough—he knows what to do. But in teams like Kenya, the situation is different, as they don’t have players of that caliber.

"One common issue is the dynamic between local and international players. The expectations placed on local players are generally not as high as those for international players. Many local players are simply content to be part of the national team, rather than pushing themselves to their limits or taking responsibility on the field.

"This contrasts with international players, who are accustomed to a professional environment where maximum effort is the standard. This disparity can sometimes create tension between the two groups."

Undoubtedly, Firat's tenure as Kenya's head coach has been characterized by both challenges and progress, with notable improvements in team organization and boosted morale.

He has showcased Kenya's football potential, earned international recognition, and prioritized long-term development. Although the team missed out on 2025 AFCON qualification, his leadership suggests a promising foundation for future progress.