Nigeria’s Super Eagles have moved up in the latest FIFA Men’s World Rankings, climbing three places to 38th in the world despite the disappointment of missing out on a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The updated rankings, released on Wednesday, show Nigeria now sit fifth in Africa, trailing Morocco, Senegal, Egypt and Algeria.
The rise comes after a mixed month of competitive action in which the Super Eagles recorded a 4–1 victory over Gabon before drawing 1–1 with DR Congo in the decisive playoff match that ended in a heartbreaking 4–3 penalty shootout defeat.
How the Super Eagles Ranking Shifted
FIFA analysed 149 matches played since the previous ranking period, including 79 friendly games, to determine the new standings.
These results played a role in shaping the standings for CAF and AFC playoff rounds, impacting future qualification pathways.
Nigeria’s updated total now stands at 1,502.46 points, a modest gain that reflects both their win over Gabon and the competitive nature of their draw against DR Congo.
Across Africa:
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Morocco remain the continent’s highest-ranked team, sitting 13th globally with 1,713.12 points.
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Senegal occupy 19th place with 1,648.07 points.
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Egypt sit 34th on 1,520.68 points.
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Algeria follow closely in 35th, holding 1,516.37 points.
Nigeria’s closest challengers include Tunisia (40th, 1,497.13 points), while Ivory Coast and DR Congo sit slightly further back with 1,489.59 and 1,442.50 points respectively.
Spain retain their position as the No. 1 ranked team, with Argentina and France completing the top three.
Brazil climbed two places to fifth, their resurgence creating shifts that allowed other nations to move within the top 10.
A Silver Lining for Super Eagles After a Difficult Month
While Nigeria’s failure to secure a place at the expanded 48-team World Cup was a bitter blow, the rise in the FIFA rankings offers a small measure of encouragement.
The Super Eagles looked poised for qualification when Frank Onyeka struck early in Rabat against DR Congo, but Elia Meschack’s equaliser and the ensuing penalty drama dashed the nation’s hopes.
The rankings, however, provided evidence that the team remains competitive on the international stage, with strong results still capable of moving them upward.
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Focus Shifts to AFCON 2025
The timing of the ranking update carries added significance to the Super Eagles’ camp. With the Africa Cup of Nations kicking off in December in Morocco, Nigeria have a chance to build on their current momentum.
A strong showing at the tournament could propel the team further up the global table and restore confidence among supporters. They have been grouped alongside;
- Tanzania (Dec 23),
- Tunisia (Dec 27) and
- Uganda (Dec 30) in Group C
While Nigeria’s jump to 38th is a reminder that the Super Eagles remain a force in African football, it signals that more work lies ahead as they aim for continental redemption.
