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Harambee Stars coach Engin Firat is optimistic that the recent friendly matches have bolstered the team’s confidence, and he’s hopeful that they can carry this improved form into the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

Stars faced formidable opponents in a series of friendlies, including Iran, Qatar, South Sudan, and Russia. Despite losses to Iran and South Sudan, the Stars managed to secure victories against Qatar and played to a draw against Russia.

Belief in Harambee Stars

Firat expressed his belief that the team is making significant progress and is better equipped to compete with stronger sides.

He aspires to see this positive momentum continue as they move forward into the World Cup and AFCON qualifiers.

“We are on a good way also to compete with other big teams, and I hope we can take all these on our way to the World Cup and AFCON qualifiers,” Firat remarked following the match.

In the latest international friendly, Harambee Stars faced Russia and played to a 2-2 draw on Monday, October 16, 2023, at the Titanic Sports Complex in Antalya, Turkey.

The game witnessed an early goal from Russia’s Aleksandr Sobolev in the 8th minute, giving them the lead. Harambee Stars faced a challenge when goalkeeper Byrne Omondi sustained an injury in the 13th minute, leading to the introduction of second goalkeeper Patrick Matasi.

Despite this setback, Harambee Stars showed resilience, with Anthony Akumu skillfully leveling the scores in the 16th minute. Masud Juma added another goal for Kenya in the 36th minute, securing a 2-1 lead for Harambee Stars at halftime.

Haraambee Stars concede

In the second half, both teams relentlessly pressed to break through each other’s defences. However, in the 89th minute, Russia’s Ivan Oblyakov found the back of the net, resulting in a final score of 2-2.

Coach Engin Firat commended the team’s performance against a European nation, acknowledging the challenge of facing such formidable opponents.

“It’s the first time Kenya gets to experience a European team and against a big footballing country. To play against these kinds of teams with good players is very tough, but the boys played very well,” Firat said.

With the friendlies behind them, Harambee Stars are now shifting their focus to the upcoming FIFA World Cup Qualifiers scheduled to commence in November 2023. They are placed in Group F, where they will face Ivory Coast, Gabon, Gambia, Burundi, and Seychelles.