Kenya slips in FIFA rankings despite CHAN efforts
By Kenneth Mwenda, September 18, 2025Kenya has dropped two places in the latest FIFA rankings, falling from 109 in July 2025 to 111. This comes despite a competitive showing at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), where the Harambee Stars reached the quarter-finals.
Kenya’s exit from CHAN came after a 1-1 draw with Madagascar, which they lost 4-3 on penalties. The defeat was followed by a 3-1 loss to The Gambia in the World Cup qualifiers at Kasarani. Although Kenya later defeated Seychelles 5-0, the results have left the Harambee Stars virtually certain to miss out on the 2026 World Cup.
FIFA rankings are calculated using results from matches, the strength of opponents, and the importance of games. Wins against stronger teams or in major competitions have a bigger impact on points. Kenya’s losses at crucial stages have contributed to the drop, returning them to a ranking similar to most of 2025.
East Africa’s rankings shift
Tanzania and Uganda, Kenya’s East African neighbours, have also seen changes in the rankings. Tanzania slipped four places to 107, while Uganda rose six spots to 82.
These shifts reflect performances during CHAN and other recent matches. At CHAN 2024, all three co-hosts, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, were eliminated at the quarter-final stage. Tanzania lost 1-0 to Morocco, Kenya fell on penalties to Madagascar, and Uganda bowed 1-0 to Senegal in Kampala.
Despite the early exits, the teams showed progress. Uganda reached the CHAN quarter-finals for the first time in six appearances, topping a group that included Algeria and South Africa.
Kenya and Tanzania also showed moments of quality but were undone by narrow defeats. Uganda coach Morley Byekwaso remained positive, saying, “We will learn and come back stronger.”
In the African context, Morocco remains the top-ranked team in CAF. The rankings highlight the competitive nature of African football, with small margins deciding progress in major tournaments and overall standing.