DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA has made a remarkable leap in the latest FIFA World Rankings, climbing six positions from 112th to 106th.
This impressive rise, which boosts Tanzania’s ranking points to 1199.33 from 1173.84, marks the nation’s highest position in nearly a decade.
The previous peak of 100th was achieved in March 2015.
However, this position was short-lived, as Tanzania dropped to 107th later that same year and has since faced difficulties in climbing back into the upper ranks.
The recent surge is largely attributed to a string of victories in key matches played between October 27 and November 19, 2024. Tanzania secured wins against Guinea, Ethiopia and Sudan, with only a narrow defeat to Sudan marring their impressive run.
The victories include a 1-0 win against Guinea on November 19, a 2-0 triumph over Ethiopia on November 16 and another 1-0 success against Sudan on November 3.
The only setback was a 1-0 loss to Sudan on October 27, but overall, the team’s performance during this span propelled them up the rankings.
In the CECAFA region, Tanzania’s rise stands out amidst mixed performances from its neighbours. Kenya experienced a slight setback, dropping two places to 108th.
Uganda remains stable at 88th, maintaining its position in the rankings. Sudan, on the other hand, saw a decline of three places, now sitting at 113th. Rwanda made a modest gain, climbing two spots to 124th, while Burundi holds steady at 139th.
Ethiopia also saw a small improvement, rising two places to 146th. Djibouti managed a slight increase, moving up one position to 191st, while Somalia remains at the 202nd place.
Globally, several nations have also experienced upward movements, with countries such as Zambia and Guyana both making notable climbs.
Niger, for instance, made the most significant leap, rising nine spots to 122nd after impressive performances in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Similarly, other countries like Kosovo and Comoros also saw their rankings improve, signalling that the international football landscape is increasingly competitive
