Kenya surrendered a first-half lead to settle for a 1-1 draw against Lesotho in an international friendly match staged at the Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium in Pretoria, South Africa, on Thursday, 4 June, 2026.
Frank Odhiambo handed Benni McCarthy‘s men a dream start with a goal in the 12th minute, but Thabo Makhele netted with 20 minutes left on the clock.
The draw extended Harambee Stars 33 years wait to grab their first win against Lesotho since Saturday, 24 April 1993, when Kenya ran out 3-0 winners.
The return leg of this friendly will be played at the same venue on Sunday, June 7.
Kenya were initially scheduled to face Palestine and Kyrgyzstan at the Dolen Omurzakov Stadium in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.
However, those friendlies were cancelled, prompting the Benni McCarthy coached Kenyan side side to take on 145th-ranked Lesotho instead.
Lesotho vs Kenya lineups
- Lesotho: Leluma Moeka, Kenneth Falene, Katloho Koaeana, Thabo Makhele, Rethabile Mokokoane, Kananelo Rapuleng, Mrena Moloi (Tsepo Toloane), Teboho Letsema, Lehlohonolo Fothoane, Motebang Sera, Tumelo Makha
- Kenya:Â Farouk Shikhalo, Frank Odhiambo, Ronney Onyango, Richard Odada (Chrispine Erambo), Stanley Wilson, Clarke Odour (William Lenkupae), Zech Obiero, Mohammed Bajaber, Ben Stanly Omondi, Lawrence Okoth