Nigeria have moved up three places to 38th in the newest FIFA men’s world rankings released on Wednesday, following a month that saw the Super Eagles feature in two competitive matches.
The latest update covers 149 international fixtures played since the previous ranking release. Nigeria’s 4–1 win over Gabon and their 1–1 draw with DR Congo — a game they eventually lost 4–3 on penalties in the African play-off — were enough to lift them slightly despite the disappointment of missing the 2026 World Cup.
Nigeria now have 1,502.46 points, placing them fifth in Africa behind Morocco, Senegal, Egypt, and Algeria.
How Africa’s top teams stand
• Morocco: 1,713.12 points (Africa’s top-ranked team)
• Senegal: 1,648.07 points (19th globally)
• Egypt: 1,520.68 points (34th globally)
• Algeria: 1,516.37 points (35th globally)
• Nigeria: 1,502.46 points (38th globally)
Nigeria’s closest challenger is Tunisia, who sit 40th with 1,497.13 points. Ivory Coast and DR Congo follow with 1,489.59 and 1,442.50 points respectively. Morocco, however, hold a substantial 210-point cushion over the Super Eagles.
FIFA noted that ranking movements were influenced by results across all confederations and the completion of final qualifying games for the expanded 2026 World Cup.
Global picture
Spain retain their position at the top of the world rankings, with Argentina and France in pursuit. Brazil climbed two places to fifth after a strong run, opening up room for shifts among other nations.
Nigeria look ahead
Nigeria’s rise offers a small lift after the painful World Cup play-off defeat in Rabat. Frank Onyeka had given the Super Eagles an early lead before Elia Meschack’s equaliser forced penalties.
With AFCON 2025 approaching in December, Nigeria now have a timely chance to build on their ranking. A solid tournament performance in Morocco could see them climb even higher in the next update.
