Sports
Super Eagles rise to 38th in latest FIFA rankings despite play-off loss
Nigeria’s Super Eagles have moved up three places to 38th in the newest FIFA Rankings, despite failing to secure a ticket through the African World Cup Qualifying Play-off after a dramatic 4–3 penalty shootout loss to DR Congo.
The global football body released the updated standings on Wednesday, reflecting outcomes from the most recent round of 2026 World Cup qualifying games. A total of 149 fixtures were played, including 79 friendlies.
Before this update, Nigeria occupied 41st position in the world and sat fifth in Africa.
The team’s rise is largely attributed to their commanding 4–1 victory over Gabon during the qualifiers.
Although the Super Eagles eventually fell to DR Congo in the play-off, FIFA’s system recognises matches decided by penalty shootouts as draws meaning the loss did not negatively impact Nigeria’s ranking.
The latest ranking offers a morale boost for the team as they continue their push toward securing a place in the 2026 World Cup.
Super Eagles remains among Africa’s top five teams in the latest rankings, behind Morocco (11), Senegal (19), Egypt (34), and Algeria (35).
Globally, Spain, Argentina, France, and England maintained their top-four positions, while Brazil moved up to fifth, overtaking the Netherlands and Portugal. Germany and Croatia complete the top 10.
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