Harambee Stars' turbulent year ends with mixed results, setting the stage for redemption in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Harambee Stars have concluded 2023 on a note of stagnation maintaining their 110th position in the latest and final FIFA world rankings of the year.
The announcement came from the world football governing body on a Thursday that left fans both hopeful and reflective.
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Harambee Stars' journey through 2023 was a rollercoaster of emotions with victories and defeats that showcased their potential and areas needing improvement.
In November, they kicked off the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign with a 2-1 loss to Gabon. Despite the loss, the Stars displayed glimpses of brilliance, even taking the lead at one point.
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However, they quickly rebounded, putting on a show with a resounding 5-0 victory over Seychelles, a team considered minnows in the world of football.
It is this oscillation in performance that has contributed to Harambee Stars maintaining their 110th position in the FIFA rankings.
While victories such as the one against Qatar in an international friendly undoubtedly bolstered their total points tally, their loss to Gabon prevented them from making significant progress.
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The 110th position, though currently static, is not set in stone. The next international window between January and February 2024 brings the promise of change and an opportunity for the Stars to shine brighter.
Another chance will come after the commencement of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, a competition that holds immense importance and prestige in African football.
The last rankings were released on November 30th, and Kenya also remained at 110th following the end of November’s international break.
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Last month saw international matches taking place across the globe, with FIFA World Cup qualifiers being a focal point of attention in Africa, Asia, and South America.
These intense battles for World Cup berths undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the FIFA rankings, influencing the positioning of teams and shaping the global football landscape.
Kenya started the year ranked 102nd, which was their highest position on April 6th, 2023.
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In addition to World Cup qualifiers, other confederations had their schedules filled with UEFA EURO 2024 qualifying matches, Concacaf Nations League 2023-24 encounters, and the Pacific Games 2023.
These competitions had a considerable impact on the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking, stirring up excitement among football enthusiasts worldwide.
World champions Argentina strengthened their grip at the top of the FIFA world rankings.
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Argentina, who dethroned Brazil at the summit in April, remained on top after defeating them in their 2026 World Cup qualifiers in November.
Second-placed France retained their position, followed by England (third), Belgium (fourth), and Brazil (fifth).
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