Harambee Stars Captain Michael Olunga.
Kenya’s hopes of qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) have once again slipped away.
The national team, known as the Harambee Stars, has been plagued by inconsistent performances, questionable team selections, and underwhelming results in the ongoing AFCON qualifiers.
As the team stumbles toward another missed continental tournament, the question on everyone’s mind is: where did it all go wrong?
A major factor behind Kenya’s struggles has been poor team selection.
Coach Engin Firat has faced criticism for overlooking in-form players like Michael Olunga, the team’s star striker, and Richard Odada, a talented midfielder based in Europe.
While Kenya boasts talent both domestically and abroad, Firat’s reluctance to integrate these players has led to a lack of cohesion within the squad.
Kenya has struggled with consistency in the qualifiers.
Despite a strong home win against Burundi (1-0), they’ve faltered in crucial away games:
Kenya 1-1 Namibia: A disappointing draw.
Burundi 1-1 Kenya: A last-minute equalizer from Burundi ruined Kenya’s chances of securing three points.
Cameroon 2-0 Kenya: Kenya failed to break down a stronger Cameroon side.
The team has also struggled to handle away games, with defensive lapses and poor finishing costing them key points.
Key Figures in Harambee stars struggles include Michael Olunga: Known as Kenya’s top striker.
Olunga has had an impressive season with Al-Duhail in Qatar, scoring 19 goals in 26 appearances.
His absence from the starting line-up during critical qualifiers has been a point of contention among fans.
Olunga’s talent has been evident in club football, but his non-involvement in key games raises questions about the team’s approach.
Richard Odada the dependable midfielder, playing in Europe, has shown promise with his ball control and passing range.
However, he has struggled to secure a starting spot in the national team, despite his form abroad.
Odada’s omission from crucial matches highlights the tactical shortcomings of the national coach.
Coach Engin Firat’s leadership is under intense scrutiny.
With a win rate of just 23% since his appointment, his tactical approach has come into question.
Fans and analysts argue that Firat has failed to adapt to the challenges of international football and failed to create a competitive environment within the squad.
Kenya’s football struggles are not just about the AFCON qualifiers.
The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has been plagued by mismanagement, and the domestic league is underfunded, with clubs often unable to pay players.
Kenya spends just $1.2 million annually on youth football, far less than regional rivals such as Tanzania ($4.8 million).
Despite the setbacks, there is hope for Kenyan football. Emerging players like Sydney Lokale (Nairobi City Stars) and Clinton Okoth (Tusker FC) are showing potential.
Additionally, corporate sponsorships are beginning to improve the grassroots game.
For Kenya to reclaim its place on the continental stage, it needs structural reforms, investment in youth development, and a commitment to strengthening the domestic league.
The 2025 AFCON may be out of reach, but with proper investment, Kenya’s football future could still shine.
Ends.
