Harambee Stars have moved up two places to 109th in the latest provisional FIFA World Rankings following their June international friendly matches against Lesotho in Pretoria, South Africa.
The rise represents another positive step for Kenya’s national team as head coach Benni McCarthy continues to shape the squad ahead of future competitive assignments. Although the improvement may appear modest, it reflects steady progress after a challenging start to 2026 that had left the team struggling to break into the top 110 globally.
Kenya’s ranking gains were influenced by a two-match friendly series against Lesotho that produced contrasting outcomes. In the opening encounter on June 4, Harambee Stars were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw despite making a bright start. Defender Frank Odhiambo gave Kenya the lead in the 12th minute, but Lesotho fought back in the second half through Thabo Makhele to earn a share of the spoils.
The result highlighted some of the team’s recurring challenges, particularly in managing matches after taking the lead. The draw also had a slight negative impact on Kenya’s FIFA ranking points, causing a minor drop in their overall tally.
However, the Stars responded emphatically in the second meeting, delivering one of their most convincing displays in recent months. Kenya swept Lesotho aside 4-0 in a dominant performance that showcased the growing quality within McCarthy’s squad.
Mohammed Bajaber and Lawrence Okoth each scored twice as Kenya’s attack found its rhythm. The team’s fluid movement, creativity and clinical finishing overwhelmed their opponents, while tactical adjustments from the technical bench ensured the intensity remained high throughout the match.
The comprehensive victory earned Kenya a valuable boost in FIFA ranking points, helping lift their total tally and ultimately pushing the team from 111th to 109th in the world standings.
The latest rankings also underline the competitive nature of East African football. Kenya now sits second in the region behind Uganda, who occupy 89th place globally. Tanzania remain close behind in 112th position, maintaining the rivalry among the three nations.
Across the continent, Morocco continue to lead the way, sitting seventh in the world rankings and setting the standard for African football on the global stage.
While the recent rise offers encouragement, Kenya still faces the challenge of maintaining consistency against stronger opposition. The Lesotho friendlies provided clear signs of progress, particularly in attack, but also highlighted areas that require improvement.
For McCarthy and his players, the focus now shifts to upcoming qualification campaigns, where stronger performances and positive results will be crucial. For now, the latest FIFA rankings provide a welcome boost in confidence and further evidence that Harambee Stars are moving in the right direction.
