Nigeria’s Super Eagles rise in FIFA rankings

Nigeria’s Super Eagles have made an impressive leap in the latest FIFA Men’s World Rankings, climbing four places to 41st in the world and reclaiming a spot among Africa’s top five football nations.

The new rankings, released on Friday by FIFA, reflect Nigeria’s resurgence after moving up from 45th position on the back of strong showings in their 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The three-time African champions also leapfrogged Ivory Coast, who now sit 42nd globally.

The rise comes after the Eagles’ 2-1 win over Lesotho in Polokwane and a commanding 4-0 victory over Benin Republic in Uyo—results that secured their progression to the continental playoffs for the 2026 World Cup.

Next, Nigeria will face Gabon, ranked 77th worldwide and 15th in Africa, for a place in the final playoff stage, where either Cameroon or DR Congo could await.

On the African front, Morocco remains the continent’s top-ranked side despite dropping one spot to 12th in the world. Senegal follows as Africa’s second-best and 18th globally, while Egypt (32nd) and Algeria (35th) sit just above Nigeria to round out the top five.

Globally, Spain retains its position at the summit of the FIFA rankings, with Argentina climbing back into second place ahead of France.