Nigeria’s Super Eagles have climbed 12 places to 26th in the latest FIFA World Rankings, following a stellar performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
The team, which finished third in the tournament, is now Africa’s third-best side behind Senegal (12th globally) and Morocco (8th). Algeria and Egypt, both eliminated by Nigeria, rank fourth and fifth on the continent.
Over the past couple of years, Nigeria’s FIFA ranking has fluctuated from the high 20s and 30s through a dip into the 40s and back toward the 30s by late 2025. This reflects varying results in World Cup qualifiers and other international matches
Nigeria’s highest FIFA ranking ever was 5th in the world in April 1994, a peak for African teams historically.
Latest known rankings (2025–2026 period)
Nigeria finished 2025 ranked 38th in the world in the December 2025 FIFA Men’s World Ranking with 1,502.46 points. This placed them 5th in Africa behind Morocco, Senegal, Egypt, and Algeria.
In November 2025, Nigeria was also reported at 38th globally based on a ranking release.
Around October 2025, the team was ranked around 41st in the world, after climbing four places and returning to Africa’s top five.
Earlier in September 2025, Nigeria slipped slightly to 45th place in the FIFA rankings.
Earlier recent ranking context (2023–2024)
Nigeria ended 2024 around 44th in the world.
In February 2024, records suggest Nigeria was ranked around 28th globally, reflecting a stronger position earlier in the qualification cycle.
Nigeria’s journey at the 2025 AFCON was marked by resilience and attacking flair.
The Eagles won six of their seven matches, losing only to hosts Morocco on penalties in the semi-finals. They then secured third place with a 4-2 victory over Egypt in the playoff match on Saturday.
Key players, including the team’s captain and top scorers, showcased outstanding performances, earning praise from fans and analysts alike. The tactical prowess of the coaching staff was also highlighted as a major factor behind Nigeria’s rise in the rankings.
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This marks the Super Eagles’ highest FIFA ranking in several years, reflecting a renewed consistency on the international stage. Nigeria’s football history includes three AFCON titles and regular appearances at the FIFA World Cup, but fluctuations in form had previously seen them drop in the global standings.
Globally, Spain, Argentina, France, England, Brazil, Portugal, the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, and Croatia occupy the top 10 positions. The Eagles’ latest rise underscores Nigeria’s growing prominence in international football and sets a promising tone ahead of future tournaments.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
