Kenya’s national men’s football team Harambee Stars head coach Engin Firat has won the award of the most successful Turkish Coach overseas at the Istanbul ATA Club Award Ceremony.

IHA News reports that Firat earned this accolade for his outstanding work in transforming Kenya into a competitive football team, defying expectations for a nation traditionally known for its prowess in athletics.

“Against all odds and without any players in a top team, Engin Fırat successfully transformed Kenya into a team with a promising future,” stated the award announcement.

The organizers commended Firat for elevating Kenya onto the international football stage, securing high-profile matches, and achieving commendable results.

In recent months, the Harambee Stars have faced Iran, Qatar, and Russia, with outcomes of a 2-1 loss, a 2-1 victory, and a 2-2 draw, respectively.

“His remarkable achievements, particularly away performances and results against formidable teams like Iran, Qatar, and Russia, have garnered global recognition,” the statement adds.

At the same award ceremony, Vincenzo Montella, coach of the Turkish national team, was named Coach of the Year, and Galatasaray received the Team of the Year Award.

Engin Firat: Other countries would erect a monument in my honour had I beaten Russia

After pulling off a 2-2 draw with Russia on October 16, 2023, in Turkey, Firat said he would have garnered a greater level of respect if he were coaching another national team in the region, perhaps even leading to the installation of a monument in his honour.

“If we beat Russia, no one would care either, because Kenya is not a football country. In any neighboring country, they would erect a monument to me in the city center for the victory over Russia,” claimed the 53-year-old.

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In his own words, many people, including Kenyans, had anticipated them to be served a thorough beat but they were disappointed after Harambee Stars managed to hold off the 2018 World Cup hosts.