Nigeria’s Super Eagles have experienced mixed fortunes in the first FIFA rankings of 2025, dropping to sixth place in Africa while inching up one spot to 43rd globally.
The shift sees Nigeria overtaken by Africa Cup of Nations champions Ivory Coast, who now occupy fifth on the continent.
However, the Super Eagles’ global rise comes as a result of Romania slipping down the rankings.
The latest update follows Nigeria’s recent outings in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, where they secured a 2-0 win over Rwanda in Kigali before being held to a 1-1 draw by Zimbabwe in Uyo.
These results earned the Super Eagles 1481.35 points—just six behind Ivory Coast.
Despite the progress on the world stage, Nigeria remain fourth in their qualifying group, raising concerns about the possibility of missing back-to-back World Cup appearances.
Morocco continue to lead Africa’s rankings and now sit 12th globally, followed by Senegal (19th), Egypt (32nd), Algeria (36th), and Ivory Coast (41st).
On the global front, Argentina remain top, ahead of Spain, France, England, and Brazil. FIFA also noted Myanmar as the biggest mover, jumping seven spots to 162nd, while Guinea-Bissau dropped eight places to 128th.
The next FIFA rankings will be released on July 10.
