Nigeria’s Super Eagles have dropped one place in the latest FIFA World Rankings released on Thursday, slipping from 43rd to 44th globally. Despite the minor slide, the team remains firmly among Africa’s elite, holding on to fifth position on the continent.
Nigeria trails only Morocco (12th), Senegal (18th), Egypt (34th), and Algeria (36th), while staying ahead of familiar rivals such as South Africa (56th) and Ghana (76th).
The new rankings follow a stretch of mixed performances by the Super Eagles, highlighted by a Unity Cup victory in London under new head coach Eric Chelle, who remains unbeaten since taking charge.
Ivory Coast, who briefly leapfrogged Nigeria after winning the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, fell four spots in the latest rankings and now sit just behind the Super Eagles in Africa’s pecking order.
Senegal Lead Africa, Global Top Five Steady
Senegal continue to shine as Africa’s highest-ranked nation, climbing into the top 20 globally. Meanwhile, the global top five remains unchanged, with Argentina, France, Brazil, England, and Belgium holding their ground.
Mexico rose to 13th after clinching the Gold Cup, overtaking the United States, who dropped to 15th. Costa Rica emerged as the biggest mover globally, leaping 14 spots to 40th.
Other notable risers include:
- Norway – up 5 places to 33rd
- Paraguay – up 5 to 43rd
- North Macedonia – up 5 to 62nd
- Zambia – up 5 to 83rd
In Asia, countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Laos recorded encouraging gains, while Bermuda and Grenada made notable upward movements.
Nigeria Eyes Stability Under New Leadership
Despite the drop in ranking, Nigeria’s status as a top-five African team remains intact. With Eric Chelle at the helm and fresh talent emerging, expectations are high for improved performances in upcoming qualifiers and major tournaments. The Super Eagles will be aiming to climb back up the rankings as they continue their rebuild and pursuit of continental and global success.
