By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Super Eagles Fly High in Latest FIFA Rankings After AFCON Heroics
Nigeria’s Super Eagles have recorded a remarkable rise on the world football stage, climbing into 26th position in the latest FIFA World Ranking and reclaiming their status among Africa’s elite.
The new ranking, released on January 19, reflects Nigeria’s impressive campaign at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, where the three-time continental champions finished third and returned home with a bronze medal.
It marks a dramatic turnaround for the national team, who were previously ranked 38th globally before the tournament.
Their surge up the ladder follows a string of commanding performances that saw them win six of their seven matches at AFCON, losing only in a tense semi-final clash against hosts Morocco, decided by penalties.
On the African scene, Nigeria now sit third on the continent, behind champions Senegal and host nation Morocco, who are ranked 12th and 8th in the world respectively.
Algeria and Egypt, both defeated by the Super Eagles during the competition, trail behind in fourth and fifth positions in Africa.
Nigeria’s campaign ended on a high note with a thrilling 4–2 victory over Egypt in the third-place playoff, a result that further boosted their ranking points and underlined their return to form.
The latest standings confirm the Super Eagles’ growing reputation as one of Africa’s most dangerous sides and signal renewed belief among fans ahead of upcoming World Cup and continental qualifiers.
Globally, Spain top the FIFA ranking, followed by Argentina, France, England and Brazil, while Portugal, the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany and Croatia complete the top ten.
For Nigeria, the ranking jump is more than just numbers, it is a statement of intent, a reminder of pedigree, and a promise of even greater performances to come.
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