Kenya national football team head coach Engin Firat has faced intense criticism from fans due to poor performances and point losses in recent matches. The heavy defeats against Cameroon in both games have diminished the importance of the four points Kenya had previously secured in the group.
Kenya’s chances of qualifying are now nearly impossible. For Kenya to advance, Zimbabwe would need to lose one game and draw another, dropping a total of four points in their remaining matches.
With such results, Turkish coach Engin Firat has become the primary target of media criticism. The situation has escalated to the point where, in addition to his tactical decisions and player substitutions, even his choice of attire is being scrutinized.
This seems to be paving the way for Firat’s departure from the Kenya national team. Kenyan fans, frustrated after 30 years of failing to qualify from the group stages, have reached the end of their patience.
However, Kenya is a very young team, and Firat has been building a mentality that strengthens these young players mentally and helps them stand firm on the field. When looking at the previous matches, Firat’s career since taking over the team hasn’t been all that bad. Firat’s biggest challenge has been his refusal to sell false dreams to the fans. While this is a logically sound strategy, football fans are driven by emotion.
It seems that Firat’s future in Kenya will depend on the results of the AFCON group stage. If Kenya is eliminated, his tenure is likely to come to an end. However, any potential advancement could elevate him to legendary status.