Nigeria’s Super Eagles have slipped one place, falling from 43rd to 44th in the latest FIFA men’s world rankings, according to updates released on Thursday. This position also places them fifth in Africa, trailing regional powerhouses Morocco, Senegal, Egypt, and Algeria.
The drop reflects dwindling performance in recent Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches, including a 1–1 draw away to Benin and a frustrating 2–1 loss at home to Rwanda. At the top of the global rankings, Argentina retains pole position, with France second and Spain third. England, Brazil, Portugal, the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy, and Germany complete the top ten.
Editorial
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We must confront the uncomfortable truth: slipping to 44th in the world is a wake‑up call for Nigerian football. We cannot dismiss a marginal fall as inconsequential—this decline reflects deeper issues that require urgent attention.
It’s clear our team’s recent performances have lacked consistency. Drawing with Benin and losing to Rwanda fell short of the standards expected of a national side that once graced the top 10 in global football. We must ask: are tactical shortcomings, player motivation or structural weaknesses to blame.
It is our shared responsibility fans, players and administrators to demand more. The upcoming World Cup qualifiers in March 2025 present a vital opportunity for reset. We should be demanding transparency in coaching decisions, accountability in preparation, and a renewed focus on performance targets.
This isn’t a moment to shift blame it’s a moment to foster ownership. We must use this setback as a springboard for rebuilding, not just in roster selection, but in mindset. If we do, we might just see Nigeria climbing back up—not inching further down.
Did You Know?
- Argentina first topped the FIFA rankings in June 2007 and has remained a consistent No. 1 since their 2022 World Cup triumph.
- Nigeria achieved its highest-ever FIFA ranking of fifth in April 1994 following the country’s AFCON victory that year.
- The Super Eagles reached their lowest ranking 82nd—in November 1999.
- Nigeria has appeared in six FIFA World Cups; their best performances saw them reach the Round of 16 in 1994, 1998, and 2014.
- They have won the Africa Cup of Nations three times in 1980, 1994 and 2013.
