Nigeria’s Super Eagles have jumped up 14 spots in the latest FIFA ranking after their impressive outing at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Nigeria lost to Cote d’Ivoire in the final of the competition but has now skyrocketed in the FIFA rankings to become number 28 in the world and number 3 in Africa.
FIFA in a statement on its website while announcing the latest ranking, said “Indeed, across the two continents, no fewer than six teams have scaled ten places or more. Amongst the African sides, Côte d’Ivoire (39th, up 10) reap the rewards of their continental triumph on home soil, secured following an eventful tournament campaign.
“Beaten finalists Nigeria (28th, up 14) make significant strides but are no match for the Angola side they ousted in the last eight (93rd, up 24), who are the biggest climbers in the latest instalment of the global ranking.”
With the latest move, the Super Eagles are now only behind Morocco (12th) and Senegal (17th) in Africa, with Egypt (36th) and Cote d’Ivoire (39th) completing Africa’s Top 5 teams. The latest ranking is the Super Eagles’ highest since May 2013, which was 3 months after winning the AFCON in South Africa.
In the world rankings, World Cup Champions Argentina retain their number 1 spot, with France, England, Belgium and Brazil completing the top 5.
Meanwhile, FIFA listed Angola, Qatar, Jordan, Nigeria, Cote d’Ivoire and Thailand as the highest climbers in the new Rankings.
You can check out the full FIFA Rankings here.
