Kenya has recorded a notable improvement in the latest FIFA rankings, a positive shift for the national team under new manager Benni McCarthy.
According to the latest rankings, the Harambee Stars climbed to position 109, up from the previous 111 - a position they have been languishing in for a large part of 2025.
The upward trajectory comes during a period of transition for the team, with South African legend Benni McCarthy having taken charge of the national side in March 2025.
Since McCarthy's appointment, the Harambee Stars have steadily improved in their performances on the pitch in the four matches he has been in charge.
His tenure began with an impressive comeback, as Harambee Stars came from 2-0 down to secure a dramatic 3-3 draw against The Gambia on March 20. This was followed by a 2-1 defeat to Gabon three days later at the Nyayo Stadium.
During the June international break, the Stars played a 0-0 draw against Chad. Three days later, the Harambee Stars secured their first win under their new boss beating Chad 2-1 in the reverse fixture at the Nyayo Stadium.
FIFA takes a number of factors into consideration when ranking the men's national football teams, including the importance of matches played during a specific period and the strength of opponents. Nations tend to rank higher if they secure wins against stronger opponents.
Meanwhile, Kenya's East African neighbours Tanzania also recorded an impressive climb, leapfrogging the likes of Armenia, Tajikistan and Comoros to climb to position 103 in the rankings. They are behind Uganda, the best in the region at position 88 globally.
The Taifa Stars have been in impressive form since March, securing two wins, including an emphatic 3-0 victory over Congo. Their only defeat came against Morocco, who are ranked first in Africa.
For the Harambee Stars, the rise in the FIFA rankings also moved them up one spot in the CAF region, where they now sit at position 26.
McCarthy's side will hope to make more strides in the FIFA rankings as they prepare to take part in the African Nations Championships (CHAN 2024), which is co-hosted alongside Uganda and Tanzania.
The Harambee Stars first game in the tournament will be against DR Congo on August 3.
