In the latest FIFA rankings, Nigeria has moved up to 43rd place globally, advancing one spot from their 44th position at the end of 2024.
The announcement, made by the World Football Governing Body on Thursday via its X handle, places the Super Eagles among the top 50 teams worldwide.
Argentina remains dominant at the number one spot, continuing their impressive form in international football.
Spain holds onto second place, while France remains in third. England and Brazil complete the top five, ranking fourth and fifth respectively.
Nigeria’s climb in the rankings could be attributed to their strong performances in recent matches, including a notable victory over Rwanda.
The win is part of their ongoing quest to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to take place in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
This victory is a positive sign for the Super Eagles as they aim to secure their place on the world stage.
The Netherlands have moved up one spot to sixth, while Portugal has dropped to seventh. Belgium, Italy, and Germany round out the top 10 rankings, in eighth, ninth, and tenth place, respectively.
On the African front, Morocco has moved up two places to claim the top spot on the continent, ranking 12th in the world. Senegal, which previously held the top spot, now sits second in Africa and 19th globally.
Egypt and Algeria have also shown notable progress, with Egypt moving up to 32nd globally and Algeria ranking 36th.
Both teams moved up one spot each to 3rd and 4th in Africa. Meanwhile, Cote d’Ivoire, the current African champions, have made a significant leap, moving five places ahead to 41st in the global rankings and securing 5th place in Africa.
At 43rd in the world, Nigeria sits just two spots below Cote d’Ivoire in 41st. The Super Eagles are ranked 6th in Africa, ahead of Tunisia, who have climbed three spots to 49th, securing the 7th position on the continent.
With the next FIFA rankings set to be released on July 10, all eyes will be on how these movements will shape the teams’ preparations for the upcoming international competitions.
