Harambee Stars head coach Engin Firat made remarks that did not sit well with Kenyans shortly after the barren draw against Zimbabwe in the opening match of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers at Namboole Stadium.The tactician criticized fans for failing to travel to Uganda, where the match was staged, and even expressed doubts over whether Kenya was truly a footballing nation.Those remarks were met with backlash from the fans, who fired back at the tactician and his poor record in competitive matches.In what will probably soothe the hearts of fans, CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe has labeled the country a football-loving nation, contrary to what Firat perhaps believes in.##NAJAVA_MECA_8333873##Motsepe made the observation having witnessed the CAF Champions League second preliminary round clash pitting Gor Mahia against defending champions Al Ahly of Egypt at the Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday.Thousands of fans from either side painted the stadium green and red, much to the delight of Motsepe, who inspected the facility afterward.“Kenya is a football-loving nation. The country has exceptionally talented athletes and football players,” said the CAF boss in his address to the media on Monday.Motsepe reveals dates, qualifying schedule of special CHAN involving Kenya, Uganda & TanzaniaMotsepe, who is expected to return to Nairobi in December, further praised the natural ability of Kenyan sportsmen to compete in various disciplines.“The Kenyan people have God-given athletic ability,” he added.Meanwhile, the CAF supremo said the impact of the construction of the Talanta Stadium and the ongoing renovation works at Kasarani were being felt.CAF president impressed with progress made in upgrading Kenyan sporting facilitiesHe said the two facilities had created employment for at least 5,000 Kenyans and there were more benefits in the pipeline upon their completion.The two facilities alongside the Nyayo will host the 2025 CHAN Championships and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations finals.“Football creates jobs and opens doors for investment. Football brings our people together regardless of their tribe, religion, and social status,” he added.
