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Coach Engin Firat staunchly defends Harambee Stars' selection for Russia friendly amidst criticism, emphasizing players’ potential and urging fan support.
Harambee Stars head coach Engin Firat has robustly defended his squad selection ahead of the upcoming friendly against Russia, amidst backlash from some quarters.
Speaking during the team’s training session in Turkey, Firat expressed his unwavering confidence in the selected squad and the value of international friendlies in promoting Kenyan football on the global stage.
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14:06 - 08.10.2023
FOOTBALL Nine top players missing from Engin Firat's Harambee Stars squad for Russia friendly
Notable omissions from the Harambee Stars squad raise questions as fans wonder about the rationale behind the coach's choices.
Firat's comments came as he led his squad through their second intensive training session in Turkey in preparation for the eagerly-awaited friendly against Russia scheduled for Monday, October 16, 2023, in Antalya, Turkey.
“I am hopeful that these matches will not only expose our players to better opportunities but also market Kenyan football, and in the long run, generate income for our clubs through transfer fees,” Firat optimistically noted.
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11:33 - 08.10.2023
FOOTBALL Free agent Ovella Ochieng back as Engin Firat names Harambee Stars squad to face Russia
Ovella has been a free agent since being released by Richards Bay at the end of last season.
Highlighting the team’s commendable performance in recent friendlies, Firat drew attention to the games against Asian champions Qatar and Iran, where the Harambee Stars showcased their burgeoning talent and potential.
“Against Iran, we played well. Against Qatar, we secured the result we desired against the reigning Asian champions. These friendlies serve purposes beyond mere results; they pave the way for future opportunities in Kenyan football,” explained the coach, emphasizing the dual role of these matches in yielding positive results and opening doors for future opportunities in Kenyan football.
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08:53 - 24.09.2023
FOOTBALL Nondi finally reveals what maiden Harambee Stars goal means to him
Nondi scored a last-minute winning goal in Harambee Stars’ 2-1 win over Qatar after he was set up by captain Michael Olunga.
Firat did not mince his words while calling upon Kenyan fans to rally behind the Harambee Stars, as the team braces for significant upcoming matches.
“Everyone has their expectations regarding our squad selection. My primary responsibility is to assemble a team that’s up to the challenge for the upcoming assignments. The door is always open for players to come in or out, and I am confident that the current squad is fully capable of handling the tasks ahead,” declared Firat.
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15:00 - 10.10.2023
FOOTBALL Firat explains Daniel Anyembe's exclusion from Harambee Stars squad for Russia friendly
Harambee Stars coach Engin Firat has revealed why Daniel Anyembe was overlooked from the squad to face Russia.
The friendly against Russia, scheduled for Monday, October 16, 2023, in Antalya, Turkey, is seen as a pivotal preparation match for the Harambee Stars.
The team is looking forward to the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, set to commence in November of this year.
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10:06 - 18.09.2023
STARS ABROAD Bradford City coach hits out at Engin Firat over ‘poor treatment’ of Clarke Oduor
The former Manchester City manager was not impressed by the way the attacking midfielder was handled by the Harambee Stars coach during Kenya’s loss to South Sudan
Kenya, drawn in Group F for the World Cup Qualifiers, will face off against a series of strong teams, including Ivory Coast, Gabon, Gambia, Burundi, and Seychelles.
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