In a bold move to elevate Kenya’s football prowess, Harambee Stars’ head coach, Engin Firat, has revealed his plans to arrange a friendly match against football powerhouses France or Italy. The announcement comes in the wake of France’s dominating 14-0 victory over Gibraltar in a Euro 2024 qualifier just a week ago.
While Kenya currently sits at the 110th position in the FIFA rankings, a considerable distance from the football elites, Gibraltar holds the 198th spot. The stark contrast in rankings highlights the ambitious nature of Firat’s plans, as he aims to expose the Harambee Stars to top-tier competition.
France’s recent commanding performance against Gibraltar serves as a testament to the caliber of teams Firat is eyeing for friendly clashes. The Euro 2024 qualifier witnessed a football spectacle, with France netting 14 goals against their lower-ranked opponents. This resounding victory not only showcased the prowess of the French team but also emphasized the immense gap between teams at different levels of the FIFA rankings.
For Kenya, engaging in friendly matches with football giants like France or Italy could be a strategic move to enhance the team’s skills, experience, and overall footballing acumen. Such encounters would provide invaluable exposure to the Harambee Stars, allowing them to test their mettle against world-class opposition and identify areas for improvement.
The decision to pursue friendlies against top-ranking teams also reflects Engin Firat’s commitment to raising the standard of Kenyan football. By seeking out challenging opponents, he aims to push the players beyond their comfort zones and foster a competitive spirit within the squad.
While the outcome of such friendlies may be uncertain, the experience gained by facing football powerhouses would undoubtedly contribute to the development of the Harambee Stars. As the team sets its sights on future competitions, these encounters could serve as a stepping stone towards narrowing the gap with higher-ranked football nations.
In conclusion, Engin Firat’s plan to arrange friendlies against France or Italy signals a bold and ambitious approach to elevate Kenya’s football standing on the global stage. The journey may be challenging, but the potential benefits for the Harambee Stars in terms of experience and skill development could be immeasurable. Football enthusiasts eagerly await the outcome of these proposed encounters, hopeful for a new chapter in Kenyan football history.
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