Kenya vs Lesotho Prediction 07.06.2026 | Friendly International

The upcoming Sunday friendly rematch on the South African tour is set to provide an ideal testing ground for the Kenya, as newly appointed head coach Benni McCarthy looks to assess his full squad options and begin shaping a more stable system ahead of crucial upcoming AFCON qualifiers, with Kenya also among the tournament hosts.

The Harambee Stars will be eager to iron out their defensive shortcomings after a frustrating outing on Thursday, where they took a deserved lead inside 12 minutes only to be forced to settle for a disappointing 1-1 draw against Lesotho in the closing stages of the match.

There were still encouraging signs in the final third, however, as Kenya extended their scoring run to three consecutive friendly matches, and they will be determined to carry that attacking momentum into Sunday’s fixture in an effort to finally overcome Lesotho after four previous unsuccessful attempts.

In team news, Eric Otieno of Rakow Czestochowa has returned from a long spell out due to an Achilles injury, making a late cameo in the draw with Lesotho after featuring for the final 22 minutes, and he could be in contention for a starting role if deemed fully fit.

Lesotho return to the Pretoria turf carrying strong collective belief and renewed psychological momentum, after showing impressive discipline to overturn a half-time deficit and secure a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Kenya, with experienced defender Thabo Makhele playing a key role in salvaging a point.

The Likuena have maintained their competitive rhythm throughout the summer window, building on an encouraging foundation laid by their aggregate 2-1 victory over Seychelles back in March to successfully navigate the preliminary round of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

With a demanding autumn schedule fast approaching, and Lesotho drawn into a daunting Group A alongside African heavyweights Morocco as well as Gabon and Niger, Bob Atang Mafoso’s side will view this two-legged South African tour as an important tactical rehearsal, aimed at strengthening their defensive structure against higher-ranked opposition while building valuable momentum.

Head coach Mafoso made only four changes in the previous clash with Kenya, suggesting he is likely to stick with a settled starting XI, although the absence of forward Morena Moloi due to injury could open the door for Tsepo Toloane to be introduced from the first whistle in attack.